Christ Presented to the People (Ecce Homo)

Sodoma (Giovanni Antonio Bazzi)

Created:
Movement:
1549
Mannerism
key Notes:
Renaissance Mannerism, Emotional Expression
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Dimensions:
23 5/8 x 23 1/4 in. (60 x 59.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Christ Presented to the People (Ecce Homo)" is a painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Giovanni Antonio Bazzi, known as Sodoma, created around 1540–49. The work depicts the moment when Pontius Pilate presents Jesus Christ to the crowd, emphasizing the theme of suffering and redemption. Sodoma's composition is characterized by its dramatic use of color and expressive figures, reflecting the emotional intensity of the scene. The painting is notable for its intricate details and the artist's ability to convey human emotion. It is housed in the collection of the Museo Nazionale di Capodimonte in Naples, Italy. The exact circumstances of its commission and original location are unknown. The work is often analyzed in the context of the Counter-Reformation, highlighting the era's focus on religious themes and the emotional engagement of viewers.

Description of the work:

"Christ Presented to the People (Ecce Homo)" by Sodoma, created circa 1540–49, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts the moment when Pontius Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd. The composition is characterized by a dynamic arrangement of figures, with Christ at the center, crowned with thorns and bearing a sorrowful expression. The use of color is notable, with a palette that includes rich reds and deep blues, contrasting with the pale skin tones of Christ. The background features a crowd of onlookers, rendered with varying degrees of detail, which enhances the sense of depth and movement. Light plays a significant role in the painting, illuminating Christ's figure while casting shadows on the surrounding characters. The drapery of the figures is rendered with meticulous attention, showcasing Sodoma's skill in depicting texture and form. The overall emotional tone of the work conveys a sense of tragedy and pathos, inviting the viewer to reflect on the narrative moment.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Christ Presented to the People (Ecce Homo)