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The Small Carrying of the Cross, by Charles-Nicolas Cochin I, ink, 1721

The Small Carrying of the Cross

Charles-Nicolas Cochin I

1721

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

The Small Carrying of the Cross is a 1721 ink by Charles-Nicolas Cochin I, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Charles-Nicolas Cochin I
When & what style?
1721 · Baroque
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white etching shows a chaotic crowd around a central figure kneeling on the ground. Some people are carrying crosses, while others stand or kneel in the foreground. In the background, a hill is packed with more figures, some holding flags or weapons. The scene feels crowded and dramatic, with rough lines and shading adding texture. Notice how the artist packed so many people into the scene—even the edges are full of tiny figures. This style was common in Baroque art, where energy and movement mattered more than calm. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.

About the artist

More by Charles-Nicolas Cochin I

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