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Christ on the Cross

German 15th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a crucifixion scene. The image depicts a central figure on a cross, flanked by two figures on either side, each with a halo surrounding their heads. The central figure is shown with a cloth around their waist, arms stretched outward along the beam of the cross, hands open. The two figures on the sides are robed in garments, with the figure on the left slightly bowed and hands clasped together, while the figure on the right has hands raised in a gesture of prayer or reverence. The drawing utilizes bold black outlines to define figures and details, with subtle earthy tones giving color to their attire and surroundings. The overall depiction is simple and stylized, reminiscent of traditional woodcut prints.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1450
Medium
woodcut, hand-colored in yellow ocher, green, and red-orange on laid paper
Dimensions
1571 × 2028 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette