Artwork
The Passion: The Cross Bearing
The Passion: The Cross Bearing is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the Banderoles. It dates from 1462 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Passion: The Cross Bearing is a print created around 1462 by the Netherlandish artist known as the Master of the Banderoles, currently housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting a pivotal moment in the Passion of Christ, the work shows Jesus, weary and sorrowful, bearing the cross en route to Calvary, accompanied by a mixed crowd of onlookers expressing anger and sadness.
Technique & Style
Characterized by the artist's hallmark use of thin, detailed lines, the print conveys narrative depth. A predominantly dark color palette punctuated by sparse bright accents imbues the scene with gravity and solemnity.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1462, the work's provenance prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here, highlighting the need for further research into its historical ownership trail.
Context
As a work by the Master of the Banderoles, it reflects the Netherlandish artistic tendencies of the 15th century, inviting comparison with the artist's other creations for a fuller understanding of their stylistic and thematic preoccupations.
Legacy
While specific influences or notable exhibitions of 'The Passion: The Cross Bearing' are not highlighted, its presence in a prominent museum suggests its contribution to the broader study and appreciation of early Netherlandish printmaking.
Artist & collection
Artist
The Master of the Banderoles was an anonymous engraver who is thought to have worked in the northern Netherlands, perhaps in Geldern or Overijssel.
