Graflegging van Christus

Graflegging van Christus is a profound print created by the Italian Renaissance master Andrea Mantegna between 1460 and 1470. This remarkable example of early graphic arts utilizes the medium of paper, reflecting Mantegna’s pioneering efforts in producing reproductive prints. Unlike many of his contemporary painters who primarily focused on frescos or panels, Mantegna heavily engaged with engraving techniques, often basing his prints on his own designs to disseminate his artistic compositions across Europe. The work depicts the somber moment immediately following the crucifixion, capturing the emotional devastation of Christ’s followers as they prepare his body for the tomb.

Mantegna’s characteristic focus on dramatic foreshortening and classical iconography is evident in this scene of the Entombment. The emotional intensity conveyed through the figures—likely Mary, John, and Nicodemus—epitomizes the dramatic religious focus typical of the High Renaissance. As a critical piece documenting the development of European printmaking, the Graflegging van Christus highlights how masters utilized reproducible media to circulate complex visual narratives. This piece is part of the distinguished collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it serves as a crucial reference point for the study of Italian prints from the period. While the original is preserved within the museum, the historic importance of such works ensures that high-quality images are often made available to the wider public through public domain initiatives, ensuring continued access to the artistry of Mantegna.