The Risen Christ embracing the Cross

Artist Guido Reni Italian, 1575 - 1642

Datec. 1619

Period17th century

Classification(s)

Art / Paintings

Object TypePainting

Registration NumberFAS/P/188

DescriptionThe elegant, athletic and monumental figure of the Risen Christ embraces the Cross, as he emerges, victorious but humble, from an ominous darkness. The figure of the Risen Christ is inspired by a marble statue by Michelangelo Buonarroti at the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva in Rome. Guido Reni was a foremost Baroque artist who adopted a classical manner typical of the Bolognese School, which emerged under the influence of the Carracci, of which he became the dominant figure. There are a number of versions of this painting by Reni but this is considered to be the prototype. It is a classical Baroque interpretation of an idealised human figure. Formerly belonging to the Grand Master’s Palace collection, this early 17th-century painting has enjoyed tremendous admiration over the centuries. It stands testimony to the erudite patronage of the Knights of the Order of St John.Material

Oil on canvas

Technique

Painting

DimensionsFramed: 259 x 170 cmProvenanceFormerly in the collection of the Grand Master's Palace in Valletta.

Alternate ID Numbers