The Descent from the Cross: Second Plate

The Descent from the Cross: Second Plate by Rembrandt van Rijn: Rays of heavenly light pierce the darkness that is said to have descended when Jesus died, hars…

What to notice

Follow Christ’s pale body down the strong diagonal into the clustered hands below; etched lines and deep shadow compress a large painted drama into print.

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Rays of heavenly light pierce the darkness that is said to have descended when Jesus died, harshly illuminating his followers as they lower his body from the cross. Rembrandt depicts Jesus’s corpse with unprecedented realism, emphasizing its weight and humanity. Also unconventional was Rembrandt’s choice to lend his features to the figure standing on the ladder. This imposing print was based on a painting Rembrandt executed for the prestigious patron Prince Frederick Henry of Orange—perhaps as a way to celebrate t…