Artwork preview

Christ Bearing the Cross

German 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a figure carrying a large wooden cross surrounded by others. The main figure is struggling under the weight of the cross, with a halo around its head. The background shows a simple architectural structure, with green hills under a blue sky. The figures around the central individual are clad in colorful garments, red, yellow, and green being the prominent colors. They appear to be either assisting or impeding the central figure's movement. The style of this illustration offers a rich texture with bold outlines and a flat perspective.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1470/1480
Medium
woodcut, hand-colored in green, red, yellow, light orange, tan, blue, black and tarnished silver leaf on laid paper
Dimensions
2640 × 3633 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette