Artwork

The Infant Christ Asleep on the Cross (after Bartolomé Esteban Murillo)

The Infant Christ Asleep on the Cross (after Bartolomé Esteban Murillo) is an oil painting by the American Folk Art artist Mary Baker. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Infant Christ Asleep on the Cross is an oil painting by Mary Baker, dated 1858, now in the Victoria and Albert Museum. It depicts a unique religious scene of the Infant Christ in a state of slumber on a cross.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays the Infant Christ asleep on a draped cross, conveying serenity amidst foreboding symbolism. The Infant's peaceful expression contrasts with the cross, a prefiguration of his future crucifixion, inviting contemplation on the intersection of innocence and destiny.

Technique & Style

Baker employs chiaroscuro to dramatic effect, with a dark, tonally nuanced background that accentuates the Infant Christ's face as the focal point. Subtle light hints and deep color gradations add depth, drawing the viewer's gaze to the subject's serene, sleeping form.

History & Provenance

Created in 1858 by Mary Baker, the painting is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, attributed as being 'after Bartolomé Esteban Murillo', indicating it is either a copy, interpretation, or inspired work based on Murillo's original composition.

Context

While the original by Murillo would have been deeply rooted in 17th-century Spanish Baroque religious art, Baker's 19th-century interpretation reflects a continued European interest in religious themes and the technical mastery of chiaroscuro across centuries.

Legacy

The painting's legacy lies in its representation of artistic lineage and the enduring appeal of religious subjects in European art. As part of a prominent museum collection, it contributes to the study of both Murillo's influence and 19th-century religious painting practices.