Who painted Christus am Ölberg?

Christus am Ölberg was painted by Sisto Badalocchio in 1615.

Where can I see Christus am Ölberg?

Christus am Ölberg is held by Bavarian State Painting Collections.

What movement is Christus am Ölberg?

Christus am Ölberg is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Artwork

Christus am Ölberg

Sisto Badalocchio , 1615

Christus am Ölberg is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Sisto Badalocchio. It dates from 1615 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1615 by the Italian Baroque artist Sisto Badalocchio, this canvas presents a nocturnal tableau of the biblical episode in the Garden of Gethsemane. Executed during the early Baroque, the work now belongs to the collection of Munich’s Alte Pinakothek and exemplifies the dramatic visual language of the period.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on Christ seated upon a stone, his gaze directed upward toward a luminous angelic figure. The surrounding disciples are rendered in deep shadow, emphasizing the solitary anguish of the Savior as he contemplates his impending sacrifice, while the angel’s radiance suggests divine support.

Technique & Style

Badalocco employs a stark chiaroscuro scheme, juxtaposing intensely dark foreground figures with a bright, almost ethereal light surrounding the angel. This contrast heightens the emotional tension and reinforces the Baroque emphasis on theatrical illumination, guiding the viewer’s eye toward the central spiritual encounter.

History & Provenance

The painting was produced while Badalocchio was active within the Bolognese School, a network that propagated the teachings of the Carracci. After changing hands over the centuries, it entered the Alte Pinakothek’s holdings, where it remains on display as part of the museum’s Baroque collection.