The
Descent from the Cross, also known as the
Deposition of Christ or
Descent of Christ from the Cross, is a panel painting by the Flemish artist
Rogier Van Der Weyden created around 1435. This masterpiece is now housed in the
Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.
Artistic Significance and Style
The painting depicts the crucified Christ being lowered from the cross, his lifeless body held by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. The estimated date of 1435 is based on the work's style and the artist's acquisition of wealth and renown around this time, likely due to the prestige this masterwork brought him. It was painted early in Van Der Weyden's career, shortly after he completed his apprenticeship with Robert Campin, and shows the older painter's influence, particularly in the hard sculpted surfaces, realistic facial features, and vivid primary colors.
The work was a self-conscious attempt by Van Der Weyden to create a masterpiece that would establish an international reputation. He positioned Christ's body in the T-shape of a crossbow to reflect the commission from the Leuven guild of archers for their chapel Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-van-Ginderbuiten (Notre-Dame-hors-les-Murs).
Influence and Critical Reception
Art historians have commented that this work was arguably the most influential Netherlandish painting of Christ's crucifixion, and it was copied and adapted on a large scale in the two centuries after its completion. The emotional impact of the weeping mourners grieving over Christ's body, and the subtle depiction of space in Van Der Weyden's work have generated extensive critical comments. Erwin Panofsky noted: "It may be said that the painted tear, a shining pearl born of the strongest emotion, epitomizes that which Italian most admired in Early Flemish painting: pictorial brilliance and sentiment."
Context within Early Netherlandish Painting
The
Descent from the Cross is a prime example of Early Netherlandish painting, characterized by its natural representation and illusionism. The period saw significant advances in these areas, with artists like Van Der Weyden, Jan van Eyck, and Hieronymus Bosch making major contributions.
Relevance to Modern Art Appreciation
Today, the
Descent from the Cross is recognized as a seminal work in the history of art. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent depictions of Christ's crucifixion and its emotional impact continues to captivate audiences.
For those interested in exploring more works by Rogier Van Der Weyden,
Rogier Van Der Weyden: Descent from the Cross 1 is available on ArtsDot. Additionally,
Rogier Van Der Weyden: Deposition (detail) offers a closer look at the intricate details of his work.
To learn more about Rogier Van Der Weyden and his contributions to Early Netherlandish painting, visit
Rogier van der Weyden on Wikipedia. For a broader understanding of the period, see
Early Netherlandish painting.
Key Points:
- The Descent from the Cross is a panel painting by Rogier Van Der Weyden created around 1435.
- It depicts Christ being lowered from the cross, held by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus.
- The work was painted early in Van Der Weyden's career and shows Robert Campin's influence.
- It is considered one of the most influential Netherlandish paintings of Christ's crucifixion.
This masterpiece continues to be a significant piece in the history of art, showcasing the skill and emotional depth that define Early Netherlandish painting.