Artwork
Descent from the Cross
Descent from the Cross is a paint painting by the Mannerist artist Michiel Coxie. It dates from 1545 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
Descent from the Cross is a 1545 oil painting by Michiel Coxie the Elder, a Flemish artist known for his work in various mediums, including altarpieces and designs for stained glass.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the somber scene of Jesus being taken down from the cross, surrounded by figures in variously colored robes. A kneeling woman in blue gazes sorrowfully at Jesus, while others support his body.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by its use of a range of colors and textures, set against a muted background. It is associated with the Mannerist movement, reflecting Coxie's style as a court painter to Emperor Charles V and King Philip II of Spain.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
Artist & collection
Artist
Michiel Coxie the Elder, Michiel Coxcie the Elder or Michiel van Coxcie, Latinised name Coxius (1499 – 3 March 1592), was a Flemish painter of altarpieces and portraits, a draughtsman and a designer of stained-glass windows, tapestries and…
