Christ Fallen on the Cross

Alvise dal Friso

Associated Names
Alvise dal Friso

Artist, Veronese, c. 1544 - 1609

This is a drawing of intertwined figures engaged in a battle or struggle. The drawing is executed in rapid, expressive pen and ink lines, depicting groups of figures in motion, some carrying weapons like swords or spears. These figures are densely packed, creating a sense of turmoil and frenetic energy. On the left side, a figure is stretched horizontally on the ground beneath others in movement. On the right side, the composition continues with a tangle of figures in a similar chaotic arrangement. The use of lines and hatching suggests movement and aggression, creating a dramatic composition with a raw, unfinished quality.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    overall: 21.8 x 32.6 cm (8 9/16 x 12 13/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2001.31.1.b

Associated Artworks

This is a drawing of a dynamic and complex scene with multiple figures. The drawing is characterized by loose, expressive lines suggesting movement and a congregation of figures. The scene depicts figures in sweeping, gestural motions, with elements suggesting drapery or garments. The drawing is rendered in a monochromatic palette, using ink on paper, giving it a sketch-like quality. The composition is semicircular at the top. The figures display a sense of drama and emotion through their fluid and dynamic postures. The use of vigorous line work and shading gives the piece a sense of depth and vitality.

The Lamentation with Saints

Alvise dal Friso

1580


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Private collection (sale, Sotheby's, London, 4 July 1985, lot 17, pl. XV);(Flavia Ormond Fine Arts Limited, London); purchased 2001 by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

2005

  • Huber, Hans Dieter. Paolo Veronese: Kunst als soziales System. Munich, 2005: 76 and fig. 85

2017

  • Meijer, Bert W. Il disegno veneziano, 1580-1650 : ricostruzioni storico-artistiche. Florence, 2017: 91, note 15, as 17th century, possibly Roman

Wikidata ID

Q64534715

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