Artwork
Man of Sorrows
Man of Sorrows is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the Accademia Carrara.
About this work
Overview
Man of Sorrows is a tempera painting created by Sandro Botticelli in 1500, now housed at the Accademia Carrara. It portrays a solitary figure of Jesus Christ embodying the Man of Sorrows, a biblical theme symbolizing Christ's suffering.
Subject & Meaning
The painting focuses on Jesus Christ, identified by a crown of thorns and expressive, somber demeanor. His right hand is raised with fingers spread, while the left rests on his chest, conveying a sense of sorrow and possibly benediction. The overall composition emphasizes Christ's anguish and spiritual significance.
Technique & Style
A dark blue background contrasts with the vibrant red robe adorned with gold accents, highlighting the subject's importance amidst his sorrow.
Executed in tempera, the work features characteristic Botticellian attention to detail and expressive rendering of the figure. A dark blue background contrasts with the vibrant red robe adorned with gold accents, highlighting the subject's importance amidst his sorrow. The figure's long, wavy brown hair and beard, along with the subtle, downward cast of his eyes, enhance the emotional depth of the portrait.
History & Provenance
Created in 1500, the painting is attributed to Sandro Botticelli based on stylistic similarities with his known religious works. It is currently part of the collection at the Accademia Carrara.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Sandro Botticelli was a Florentine painter who loved the drama of stories—myths, saints, and ancient tales.
