Artwork
Descent from the Cross
Descent from the Cross is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1617 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Descent from the Cross is an oil on canvas painting created around 1618 by Peter Paul Rubens and his studio. It is a large work depicting the lowering of Jesus from the cross.
Technique & Style
The painting showcases Rubens' workshop practice, with his pupil Anthony van Dyck's influence evident in the bold, free brushstrokes used to render the old man's body and robes.
History & Provenance
Originally commissioned for the Capuchin church in Lier, the painting was hidden in 1794 to avoid seizure by French forces. It later entered Josephine Beauharnais's collection and was eventually acquired by the Hermitage Museum in 1814, where it remains.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Sir Peter Paul Rubens ( ROO-bənz; Dutch: ; 28 June 1577 – 30 May 1640) was a Flemish artist and diplomat.
