The Descent from the Cross (recto)

Italian 17th Century

1601

chalk

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque lamentation of christ

About this work

This drawing shows a dramatic scene with people lowering a body from a cross. It's done in red chalk on paper. The details are simple, but the emotions are strong. The artist used simple lines to show sadness and grief. This style is similar to other drawings from the same time period. Look up the technique of chiaroscuro to learn more about how artists use light and dark.