Study to "Dead Christ with Angels" 1864

Edouard Manet’s 1864 “Study to ‘Dead Christ with Angels’" is a preparatory drawing for a larger painting. Manet is known for his exploration of modern life and his influence on Impressionism. This sketch displays his use of loose brushstrokes and bold colors, characteristics typical of his later works, in a depiction of the classical subject of Christ’s death. The sketch captures a moment of intense emotion, with two angels supporting the limp body of Christ while a third angel mourns. While Manet’s finished painting is not known to survive, this study provides insight into his artistic process and his interest in religious subject matter.