Artwork

Christ carrying the cross

Christ carrying the cross, by Bartolomeo Montagna, unspecified, 1503
Christ carrying the cross, by Bartolomeo Montagna, unspecified, 1503

Christ carrying the cross is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Bartolomeo Montagna. It dates from 1503 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

Overview

Christ Carrying the Cross is a painting by Bartolomeo Montagna, created in 1503. It is an example of early Renaissance art and is held in the Ashmolean Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Jesus Christ, shown from the chest up, wearing a crown of thorns and carrying a large cross. His somber expression conveys sadness and resignation, evoking a sense of quiet contemplation and reverence.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Montagna's characteristic use of soft figures and architectural details, influenced by Giovanni Bellini. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, with strong contrasts between light and dark, emphasizing the figure of Christ and the cross.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bartolomeo Montagna

Artist

Bartolomeo Montagna

Bartolomeo (or Bartolommeo) Montagna (UK: , US: , Italian: ; 1450?– 11 October 1523) was an Italian Renaissance painter who mainly worked in Vicenza.

Ashmolean Museum

Museum

Ashmolean Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Ashmolean Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.