Artwork

Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem

Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem, by Otto Henry Bacher, 1892
Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem, by Otto Henry Bacher, 1892

Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem is a print by Otto Henry Bacher. It dates from 1892 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem, created circa 1892 by American artist Otto H. Bacher, is a painting held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Bacher, a Cleveland native, explored various genres through oil painting, in addition to his notable etchings and illustrations.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, emphasizing its architectural features such as a large dome and arched windows, set amidst surrounding stone buildings in a bustling courtyard scene with pedestrians.

Technique & Style

Bacher employed a nuanced tonal range to achieve depth and contrast. The composition leverages strong light and dark contrasts, characteristic of chiaroscuro, to imbue the buildings and figures with a sense of three-dimensionality.

History & Provenance

Created around 1892, the work is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. Specific details on its acquisition or earlier ownership are not provided.

Context

As an American artist traveling to or depicting Jerusalem, Bacher's work reflects late 19th-century interests in Orientalist themes and the historical significance of the Holy Land, though his primary reputation lies in etchings and illustrations.

Legacy

While *Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem* contributes to Bacher's diverse oeuvre, his enduring recognition primarily stems from his contributions to etching and illustration, with this painting illustrating his capacity in oil painting across subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Otto Henry Bacher

Artist

Otto Henry Bacher

Otto Henry Bacher (May 31, 1856, Cleveland - August 16, 1909, Bronxville, New York) was an American artist; primarily known for his etchings and illustrations. He also painted oils in a variety of genres.

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