The Entombment of Christ (Titian) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Entombment of Christ |
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| Artist | Titian |
| Year | c. 1520 |
| Medium | Oil on canvas |
| Dimensions | 148 cm × 212 cm (58 in × 83 in) |
| Location | Musée du Louvre, Paris |
The Entombment of Christ is a famous painting created around c. 1520. It was painted by a well-known artist named Titian. Today, you can see this artwork in the Musée du Louvre museum in Paris, France.
Contents
Journey of the Painting
This painting has traveled a lot over the centuries. It was first owned by the powerful Gonzaga family. They were a very important family in Italy.
In 1627, a king named Charles I of England bought the painting. He was the King of England, Scotland, and Ireland. He loved art and collected many beautiful pieces.
From King to King
After King Charles I died, his art collection was sold. This happened because of a leader named Oliver Cromwell. Cromwell was a military and political leader who played a big part in English history.
The Entombment painting was bought by a banker from Paris. Later, in 1662, it was bought by Louis XIV. He was the King of France and was known as the "Sun King." He also loved art and built the famous Palace of Versailles.
When Was It Painted?
Experts believe Titian painted this work around 1525. This is because it isn't mentioned in any old papers before that time. It might have been one of the first paintings the Gonzaga family asked Titian to create.
There is also a copy of The Entombment that was made later. Some people think Titian himself might have signed this copy. It is now in the collection of the Torrigiani family.
What the Painting Shows
This painting shows a sad moment. It pictures the dead body of Jesus Christ being carried to his tomb. Three men are helping to carry him.
Who Are the People?
- Nicodemus is holding Jesus's shoulders.
- Joseph of Arimathea is holding his legs.
- John the Apostle is holding his arms.
Behind them, on the left side of the painting, you can see the Virgin Mary. She looks very sad and is being supported by Mary Magdalene.
Artistic Style and Meaning
Titian used a special way to arrange the figures in the painting. They form a triangle shape. This makes Jesus's body look heavy and important.
The artist also used light and shadow to guide your eyes. The light shines on Jesus's legs and the cloth around him. But his upper body is in shadow. These dark shadows hint at the tomb and the idea of death.
Even though the painting shows a sad event, it looks very smooth and natural. It reminds some art experts of old Greek and Roman sculptures called bas-reliefs. Other artists like Pontormo and Rosso Fiorentino also created works with this classical feel.
See also
- List of works by Titian
