The Descent from the Cross
between 1435 and 1438
Rogier van der Weyden packed an incredible amount of raw emotion into this 15th-century masterpiece, depicting the moment Christ's body is lowered from the cross. Notice how the Virgin Mary in the brilliant blue dress swoons in a pose that perfectly mirrors her son's limp body, creating a heartbreaking visual echo. The figures are crammed into a shallow, gold-backed stage, making their grief feel immediate and overwhelming. It’s a prime example of Early Netherlandish painting, where every tear and fold of fabric tells a story of profound human suffering.
- Technique
- Oil painting
- Material
- Oil on oak panel
- Dimensions
- 220 cm x 262 cm
Location: Museo del Prado, Madrid
Views: 7