Descent from the Cross

The Master of the Saint Bartholomew Altarpiece painted this Descent from the Cross around 1505 in Cologne. The removal of Christ's body from the cross demanded complex figural arrangement and emotional expression. This master's characteristically ornamental style transforms the grief-stricken scene into a visually magnificent devotional spectacle. The oil medium allowed for rich tonal transitions and glazed layers of color that created luminous depth impossible with the older tempera technique. Such devotional panels served both liturgical contexts in churches and chapels and private devotional use in the homes of wealthy families who maintained personal altars and oratories.

Oil on panel with the Master's extraordinary jewel-like palette and meticulous detail. The sumptuous coloring of the mourners' garments and the careful rendering of Christ's body demonstrate his distinctive synthesis of devotion and decoration.