The Descent from the Cross 1606

"The Descent from the Cross" (1606) is a powerful etching by Italian artist Francesco Villamena (1565-1624), depicting the poignant moment when Christ's body is taken down from the cross. The print, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, captures the dramatic intensity of the scene, showcasing the grief of Mary and other figures, as well as the solemnity of the event. Villamena's masterful use of line and shading creates a sense of depth and emotion, engaging the viewer in a timeless depiction of a pivotal Christian story.