Who painted Christ descending into Hell?

Christ descending into Hell was painted by Violet Oakley in 1914.

Where can I see Christ descending into Hell?

Christ descending into Hell is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Christ descending into Hell?

Christ descending into Hell is associated with Post-Impressionism.

Artwork

Christ descending into Hell

Violet Oakley , 1914

Christ descending into Hell is a watercolor work on paper by the Post-Impressionist artist Violet Oakley. It dates from 1914 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Christ descending into Hell is a 1914 watercolour study by Violet Oakley, created as a preparatory work for a mural in the Pennsylvania State Capitol.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a scene from Christian mythology, showing Christ in a white robe, kneeling and reaching out to souls trapped in a dark, cave-like space, symbolizing his rescue of the damned.

Technique & Style

The watercolour features a mix of warm and cool colors, with deep blues and purples contrasting with warm tones, creating a dramatic and tense atmosphere.

History & Provenance

The study was made for The Slave Ship Ransomed, part of Oakley's The Creation and Preservation of the Union series (1911–20) in the Senate Chamber of the Pennsylvania State Capitol, Harrisburg.