The Great Passion:  Christ Bearing the Cross

The Great Passion: Christ Bearing the Cross

Albrecht Dürer

1504

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This painting shows a chaotic scene of people surrounding a man carrying a large cross. The man, likely Jesus, is at the center, wearing a white robe and a crown of thorns. He is being pulled and pushed by a group of people, some of whom are armed with swords and spears. In the background, there is a cityscape with buildings and a distant landscape. The painting is done in a detailed and realistic style, with intricate textures and shading. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure of Jesus. The painting is a powerful depiction of a pivotal moment in Christian history, and its detailed and realistic style makes it a compelling work of art. To learn more about the artist's use of chiaroscuro, look up the technique.

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