Entombment of Christ by Federico Barocci

Entombment of Christ c. 1578 - 1579

natural stone pattern

toned paper

abstract painting

possibly oil pastel

charcoal art

fluid art

earthy tone

coffee painting

underpainting

watercolor

Federico Barocci's "Entombment of Christ" (c. 1578-1579) is a detailed drawing depicting the poignant moment of Christ's burial. The composition showcases the figures in a dramatic yet intimate setting, emphasizing the sorrow and grief surrounding the event. Executed in black chalk on brown paper, the work displays Barocci's mastery in capturing the emotional weight of the scene, highlighting the figures' sorrowful expressions and the somber atmosphere. This preparatory drawing for a larger painting offers a glimpse into the artist's creative process and demonstrates the skillful use of line and shading to create a powerful narrative.

Comments

rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

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In preparation for his paintings, Frederico Barocci made numerous studies of figures and drapery, as well as compositions. This large work drawing, also called a cartoon, is part of the final phase of the preparations. The emphasis is on the distribution of light and shadow with which he modelled the figures. The white highlights accentuate the figure of Christ, making him stand out against the dark background.