Artwork

The Maries and Dead Christ

The Maries and Dead Christ, by Jean Louis Roullet, 1650
The Maries and Dead Christ, by Jean Louis Roullet, 1650

The Maries and Dead Christ is a print by Jean Louis Roullet. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Maries and Dead Christ is a print that reproduces a composition originally painted by Annibale Carracci around 1600. It depicts a dramatic scene of mourning, with the dead Christ surrounded by three women.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Christ's body on the ground, surrounded by three grieving women. The figures are set against a dark background with a rocky hill and distant trees, evoking a sense of sorrow and loss.

Technique & Style

The print uses chiaroscuro, a technique that employs strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of depth and emotion. Deep shadows highlight the figures, giving the scene a sense of weight and drama.

History & Provenance

The print is based on a painting by Annibale Carracci, once part of the Castle Howard collection. The original painting was later in the Orleans Gallery, where it was engraved by William Sharp.

The three Maries at the tomb of Jesus Christ
The three Maries at the tomb of Jesus Christ, Gaetano Vascellini

Artist & collection

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Maries and Dead Christ?

The Maries and Dead Christ was painted by Jean Louis Roullet in 1650.

Where can I see The Maries and Dead Christ?

The Maries and Dead Christ is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Can I buy a print of The Maries and Dead Christ?

Museum-quality prints of The Maries and Dead Christ are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.