Who painted The Bearing of the Cross?

The Bearing of the Cross was painted by Giovanni Battista Fontana in 1571.

Where can I see The Bearing of the Cross?

The Bearing of the Cross is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Bearing of the Cross?

The Bearing of the Cross is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Bearing of the Cross

Giovanni Battista Fontana , 1571

The Bearing of the Cross is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Giovanni Battista Fontana. It dates from 1571 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:upper left in flag: SPQR; lower right in rock: Dominicus Campagnola inventor / Babtista fontana faciebat / Babtista mondella excudebat; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: proof before the dedication / in [not deciphered] of painter [not deciphered] / & Patmen's address 1584 / & Monte Calverio

About this work

Overview

The Bearing of the Cross is a print created by Giovanni Battista Fontana around 1571, combining etching and engraving techniques on two joined sheets of laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the biblical scene of Christ carrying the cross to Calvary, densely populated with figures and action, conveying a complex narrative within a single image.

Technique & Style

Fontana's use of sharp lines and detailed rendering brings depth and texture to the scene, evident in the depiction of muscles, clothing, and even the horses' reins, showcasing his skill in etching and engraving.

History & Provenance

Fontana, trained by studying the works of Titian and Veronese, was active in Austria from 1562, producing various artworks, including altarpieces and frescoes, before settling in Innsbruck and receiving a court appointment in 1575.