Artwork
Christ as Man of Sorrows
Christ as Man of Sorrows is an ink print by the Baroque artist Antoine Coypel. It dates from 1692 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left in plate: Illustrissimo Viro Domino D. Eduardo Colbret Equiti Marchioni / de Villacer f et Payens Domino de St. Mesmin & Regi ab omnibus consiliis / et Regorium Aedificiorum Proefect. Offerebat humillimus et devotiss.us / Antonius Coypel; lower legt in plate: Ant. Coypel Pinxut et Fecit aqua forti 1692; lower center in plate: se vend chez Guillaume Desprez a; by later hand, lower center in graphite: N.D. No 5-2eme etat; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: 1000908 / 970 111
About this work
Overview
Antoine Coypel’s Christ as Man of Sorrows is a print created in 1692. Executed on laid paper, the work combines etching with engraving to render a subdued religious image of the crucified Christ. The composition presents a pale figure with a bowed head, a crown of thorns, and visible wounds, conveyed through soft lines and delicate shading.
Subject & Meaning
The print portrays the biblical figure of Christ in the traditional Man of Sorrows pose, emphasizing his suffering and humility. The subdued expression and quiet atmosphere invite contemplation of the spiritual significance of the wounds and the crown of thorns, rather than dramatizing the scene.
Technique & Style
Coypel employs a hybrid printmaking process, integrating the fluid, spontaneous qualities of etching with the precise, controlled lines of engraving. This combination allows for fine detail in the facial features and the blood‑streaked forehead while maintaining a gentle tonal range that softens the overall impact.
History & Provenance
Created during Coypel’s early career, the print reflects his engagement with biblical subjects alongside his work as a painter, pastellist, and decorative designer. At the time, Coypel served as court painter to Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, and later to King Louis XV, and he later directed the Académie Royale.
Context
The image belongs to the broader tradition of French history painting in the late 17th century, where religious narratives were rendered with an emphasis on moral gravity. Coypel’s approach aligns with contemporary tastes for refined, academic treatment of sacred themes, integrating his experience in courtly art with devotional content.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Antoine Coypel (French pronunciation:; 11 April 1661 – 7 January 1722) was a French painter, pastellist, engraver, decorative designer and draughtsman.
