Artwork
Christ in the Sepulchre
Christ in the Sepulchre is a print by Thomas Cheesman. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Christ in the Sepulchre is a black-and-white print depicting a somber, dimly lit scene of Christ's entombment, featuring three figures set against a dark background with a subtle, glowing highlight around them.
Subject & Meaning
The print illustrates a moment following Christ's burial, with Christ's lifeless form wrapped in cloth, and two attendants, one winged, tenderly examining his body, conveying a sense of mournful intimacy.
Technique & Style
The artist employed strong chiaroscuro, a pronounced contrast between light and dark, to imbue the scene with dramatic tension and emotional depth, drawing the viewer's focus to the central figures.
History & Provenance
The work is based on a composition by Guercino, engraved by Thomas Cheesman, and published by P. W. Tomkins, as indicated by the inscriptions on the print.
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Artist & collection
