The Descent from the Cross

The Descent from the Cross

German 15th Century

1470

paint

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This image shows a group of figures in a crowded, dramatic scene. The people are stiff and angular, with sharp edges and flat colors. Some wear robes covered in tiny dots, while others have greenish-blue halos. The background is busy with gold patterns and dark shapes that look like buildings or trees. The figures seem to be carrying a body wrapped in cloth, suggesting a moment of grief or ceremony. The bright green halos and gold edges make the scene feel both sacred and intense. Next, look up Renaissance to see how this style fits into that time.

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