Descent from the Cross by Torchlight

Descent from the Cross by Torchlight by Rembrandt van Rijn, dating from 1654, is a profound expression of the artist’s mastery of graphic media. Classified as a print, this particular impression is the highly desirable first of four states, showcasing the rich, velvety blacks achieved through the combined techniques of etching and drypoint. Rembrandt created this work during a highly productive period in his career, utilizing the precise nature of copper plate printing to achieve the deep shadows and dramatic contrasts essential for conveying the gravity of the narrative.

The subject matter focuses intensely on the aftermath of the crucifixion: the difficult moment of the removal of the body of Christ from the Cross. Using the conceit suggested by the title, Rembrandt employs dramatic chiaroscuro created by the visible light of torches, allowing the central figures attending the deceased to emerge from the surrounding darkness. This intense illumination draws attention to the physical effort and emotional weight of the undertaking. The figures struggling with the weight of the dead Christ are spotlighted, creating a stark visual metaphor for mortality and spiritual sacrifice.

The intimate scale of the print forces the viewer to confront the solemnity surrounding the Death, a subject treated repeatedly by Rembrandt in his religious compositions. This exceptional print is part of the extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age works held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As this foundational period of printmaking is often available in the public domain, the technical and expressive innovations employed by Rembrandt in his interpretation of this biblical scene continue to influence and educate artists studying the possibilities of etching.