The Dead Christ mourned by Two Angels

Image credit: The National Gallery, London

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This small painting depicts a solemn religious scene. Two angels kneel in quiet contemplation next to Christ, whose body has been taken down from the Cross following his crucifixion. While the Gospels make no mention of angels alongside the dead Christ, two are said to have been present at his tomb on the morning of the Resurrection. Rather than depict the dramatic events of Christ’s crucifixion or resurrection, Guercino has created an imagined moment of grief and quiet reflection. Despite its small scale, the painting evokes a powerful sense of sorrow. One angel is overwhelmed with sadness, his head resting mournfully on his hand; the other looks intently at Christ. The earthy tones used are characteristic of Guercino’s early style. Works on copper, like this one, are usually of small dimensions and were primarily used for private devotion.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

The Dead Christ mourned by Two Angels

Date

about 1617-18

Medium

Oil on copper

Measurements

H 36.8 x W 44.4 cm

Accession number

NG22

Acquisition method

Holwell Carr Bequest, 1831

Work type

Painting

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The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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