Christ in Limbo

Deutsche Grafik der Dürerzeit, c. 1550/1575

The artwork depicts a scene with a central figure, Christ, floating above a chaotic background. Christ is shown with a crown of thorns, a peaceful expression, and is mostly nude, draped in a white cloth. His right hand is raised, and he holds a staff with a flag in his left hand. Surrounding him are swirling white drapery and a radiant yellow halo. Below, several figures, some nude and some partially clothed, are reaching upwards towards Christ. The background is filled with architectural ruins and a multitude of figures in various poses. The earthy tones and dynamic composition convey a sense of movement.
Artist
Deutsche Grafik der Dürerzeit
Date
c. 1550/1575
Type
Painting
Medium
oil on panel
Dimensions
108.4 × 41.2 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

The artwork depicts a scene with a central figure, Christ, floating above a chaotic background. Christ is shown with a crown of thorns, a peaceful expression, and is mostly nude, draped in a white cloth. His right hand is raised, and he holds a staff with a flag in his left hand. Surrounding him are swirling white drapery and a radiant yellow halo. Below, several figures, some nude and some partially clothed, are reaching upwards towards Christ. The background is filled with architectural ruins and a multitude of figures in various poses. The earthy tones and dynamic composition convey a sense of movement.

Deutsche Grafik der Dürerzeit