Artwork

Christ bearing the cross

Christ bearing the cross, by Pieter Coecke van Aelst, oil, 1533
Christ bearing the cross, by Pieter Coecke van Aelst, oil, 1533

Christ bearing the cross is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Pieter Coecke van Aelst. It dates from 1533 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Christ bearing the cross is a 1533 painting by Pieter Coecke van Aelst, executed in paint. It is a religious work currently held at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Jesus Christ carrying a heavy cross, assisted by others, amidst a crowd of onlookers and soldiers. The scene is set against a tranquil town backdrop with towers and a church, and is likely significant within the context of Christian narrative.

Technique & Style

The composition is crowded, with a focus on the worn and serious face of Christ, clad in a red robe. Earthy tones dominate the palette, punctuated by bright reds and greens. The artist's use of color and detail brings the scene to life, capturing the contrast between Christ's fatigue and the activity around him.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pieter Coecke van Aelst

Artist

Pieter Coecke van Aelst

Pieter Coecke van Aelst or Pieter Coecke van Aelst the Elder was a Flemish painter, sculptor, architect, author and designer of woodcuts, goldsmith's work, stained glass and tapestries.

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