This is a drawing of a crucifixion scene with multiple figures involved. The image shows a lifeless body being lowered from a large wooden cross by a group of individuals. The figures are clothed in flowing garments, conveying a moment of mourning and solemnity. There is a ladder leaning against the cross with individuals positioned on and around it. On the ground, a skull and bones are visible. The background includes a cloudy sky and an additional pair of crosses. The drawing evokes a sense of drama and emotion through its use of shading and composition.

Descent from the Cross

c. 1762-1763

Medium: etching and aquatint with roulette printed in brown on laid paper
Classification: Print
Period: 1751 to 1775
Image size: 8682 × 12290px

Description

This is a drawing of a crucifixion scene with multiple figures involved. The image shows a lifeless body being lowered from a large wooden cross by a group of individuals. The figures are clothed in flowing garments, conveying a moment of mourning and solemnity. There is a ladder leaning against the cross with individuals positioned on and around it. On the ground, a skull and bones are visible. The background includes a cloudy sky and an additional pair of crosses. The drawing evokes a sense of drama and emotion through its use of shading and composition.

Rights & Source

Open access image from the National Gallery of Art, released under its open access program. Metadata via the NGA Open Data Program (CC0).

View on nga.gov →

Download full-size image →