Who painted Christ in Gethsemane?

Christ in Gethsemane was painted by Ernst Barlach in 1919.

Where can I see Christ in Gethsemane?

Christ in Gethsemane is held by National Gallery of Art.

Can I buy a print of Christ in Gethsemane?

Museum-quality prints of Christ in Gethsemane are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Christ in Gethsemane

Ernst Barlach , 1919

Christ in Gethsemane is an ink print by Ernst Barlach. It dates from 1919 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ in Gethsemane is a 1919 woodcut by Ernst Barlach, a prominent German Expressionist artist. The print depicts a nighttime scene in a garden with three figures.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows a kneeling figure with a bowed head, another with outstretched arms, and a third curled up on the ground, surrounded by jagged trees. The work reflects Barlach's exploration of human suffering and spiritual themes, influenced by his wartime experiences.

Technique & Style

The woodcut's rough, scratchy texture results from the artist's carving technique, which creates deep cuts in the wood. The stark contrasts characteristic of woodcut are used to convey the emotional intensity of the scene.

History & Provenance

Barlach's work was later deemed degenerate by the Nazi regime due to its emotional charge and departure from Realism. His art evolved from realistic representations to more expressive forms, reflecting his shifting perspective during wartime.