Artwork

Christ on the Cross [recto]

Christ on the Cross [recto], by Master of the Drapery Studies, ink, 1474
Christ on the Cross [recto], by Master of the Drapery Studies, ink, 1474

Christ on the Cross [recto] is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Master of the Drapery Studies. It dates from 1474 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ on the Cross is a drawing created by the Master of the Drapery Studies around 1474. Executed in pen and black ink with gray wash on antique laid paper, it depicts a crucifixion scene.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a naked figure on a cross, with a crown of thorns on his forehead and nails in his hands. His head is tilted back and eyes are closed, conveying a sense of suffering and death.

Technique & Style

The artist employed quick ink lines to render the figure's muscles and the drapery around his hips. The use of varying line weights and gray wash creates depth, with darker shadows under the arms and around the waist. Some areas remain sketchy, suggesting a rapid execution.

History & Provenance

The drawing is attributed to the Master of the Drapery Studies, an artist active in the late 15th century. The work's age is evident in the paper's light tan color and faint cracks.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.