Artwork
The Cross
The Cross is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Mary Altha Nims. It dates from 1804 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Cross is a drawing by Mary Altha Nims, dated circa 1804, currently in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts a solitary, dark cross positioned on a light-colored pedestal, centrally placed within the composition. Radiant light emanates from behind the cross, imbuing the scene with symbolic depth.
Technique & Style
While specific medium details are not provided, the stark contrast between the dark cross and light pedestal, coupled with the dramatic lighting, suggests influences of Romantic-era aesthetics, emphasizing emotional and spiritual intensity.
History & Provenance
Created around 1804 by Mary Altha Nims, the drawing's history prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here.
Context
The piece can be contextualized within the broader artistic movement of Romanticism, characterized by its use of light, shadow, and solitary, symbolic subjects to evoke profound emotional or spiritual responses.
Artist & collection
