Artwork
Descent from the Cross
Descent from the Cross is a print by the Renaissance artist Ugo da Carpi. It dates from 1518 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Descent from the Cross is a chiaroscuro woodcut print by Ugo da Carpi, created using multiple woodblocks to achieve a range of tones.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts the scene of Christ being lowered from the cross, surrounded by figures including the three Marys and the fainted Virgin, set against a hilly landscape.
Technique & Style
Ugo da Carpi employed three woodblocks, in light brown, dark brown, and black, to layer different tones and create depth, exemplifying the chiaroscuro technique.
History & Provenance
The design is credited to Raphael, inspired by one of his lost drawings for a Deposition scene intended for the Loggie Vaticane.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ugo da Carpi (c. 1450–1480 – c. 1523–1532) was an Italian printmaker active between 1502 and 1532 in the cities of Venice, Rome and Bologna. He is known for his technical and stylistic contributions to the chiaroscuro…
