European Painting before 1900, Johnson Collection Christ Carrying the Cross Made in Antwerp, Belgium, Europec. 1515-25 Artist/maker unknown, active Antwerp, Netherlandish Oil and gold on panel * Gallery 217, European Art 1100-1500, second floor Cat. 384 John G. Johnson Collection, 1917 |
LabelAntwerp became the busiest port in Europe during the early years of the sixteenth century. The increase in mercantile activity gave rise to a large and wealthy class of citizens who became great patrons of art, particularly painting. The ready market for paintings led in turn to the development of large workshops, where paintings were made "on speculation" for these merchants to buy. The style of painting that developed in this period, commonly called "Antwerp Mannerism," usually includes highly decorative, brightly colored costumes, like those worn by Christ's tormentor on the left and Saint Veronica in the center.* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit. |
