Artwork Page for Christ Holding a Chalice and Cross (recto)

Details / Information for Christ Holding a Chalice and Cross (recto)

Christ Holding a Chalice and Cross (recto)

1666
(Spanish, 1601–1667)
Culture
Spain
Support
Beige paper
Measurements
Sheet: 19 x 13.3 cm (7 1/2 x 5 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view

Description

In this drawing a triumphant Christ holds the cross signifying his resurrection, while offering a chalice as a symbol of his blood and sacrifice. In the background, Saint John the Baptist points, identifying Christ as the Lamb (or sacrifice) of God. Alonso Cano was an artist in Baroque Spain who made works primarily in the service of the Catholic Church and Spanish monarchs. Though no related painting is known, the composition is appropriate for an altarpiece, meant as a visual aid to clarify the meaning of the Catholic Mass.
A vertically oriented ink and wash drawing in sepia tones depicts a central, bearded figure in draped robes. He holds an ornate chalice topped with a circular host and cradles a thick cross under one arm. To our lower left, a smaller figure points a finger upward. To our lower right, two bearded figures huddle together. Fine lines and washes define the composition against a clouded sky on aged, vertical paper.

Christ Holding a Chalice and Cross (recto)

1666

Alonso Cano

(Spanish, 1601–1667)
Spain

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