The Dead Christ

About the Art

This muscular image of Christ indicates the influence of ancient Greek and Roman sculpture on the art of Renaissance Italy. The lifelike depiction helps emphasize Christ’s humanity and sacrifice. Deceased, awaiting entombment, Christ's head is bowed and eyes almost closed. Little is known of this sculpture’s origin, except that it is a fragment from a larger group. It may have been installed as a wall relief or possibly above a doorway. He was likely supported originally by angels at his sides or by the Virgin Mary and John the Evangelist, his most beloved disciple.

FEATURED IMAGE
Attributed to Cristoforo Solari (Italian, active 1489–1527), The Dead Christ, about 1500, marble, 27 x 12 3/4 x 7 1/2 inches (68.6 x 32.4 x 19.1 cm). Museum purchase with funds provided by the 1971 Associate Board Art Ball and the Virginia V. Blakeney Endowment, 1970.29