Artwork preview

Bust of Christ

North Italian 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a profile view of a bearded man with long hair and a radiant halo surrounding his head. The halo is intricately detailed with a pattern of rays extending outward. There are ornate details above his head, including a sun motif on the left, another circle with a face on the right, and an eagle at the top center. The sculpture is rectangular in shape and made of metal, with a golden-brown color and a slightly oxidized finish. There are inscriptions "I N" on the left and "R I" on the right of the figure's neck. The relief is finely crafted with detailed textures in the hair and garment.

Artwork Details

Date
15th century
Medium
gilded bronze
Dimensions
2988 × 4101 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette