Man of Sorrows

Man of Sorrows

Artwork Type: Painting

Artwork Description: The image you have provided is a painting called "Man of Sorrows" by the Early Netherlandish artist Simon Marmion. It was created in 1480 and is currently housed in the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg. The painting depicts Jesus Christ after his crucifixion, with his head resting on his chest and his body covered in wounds. The work is a poignant and powerful reminder of Christ's suffering and sacrifice.

Artwork Date: 1480

Institution Name: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Strasbourg

Artwork Size: 0.29 meters wide, 0.43 meters high

Author Name: Simon Marmion

Description:

The painting shows a half-length portrait of Jesus Christ against a dark, gold-toned background. His head, crowned with thorns, hangs heavily on his chest, his eyes closed in death or deep suffering. Blood trickles down his forehead from the punctures inflicted by the crown. His expression is one of profound sorrow and exhaustion.

Christ's naked torso is marked with the wounds of his ordeal. The most prominent is the gash on his right side, blood flowing freely from it. His hands, crossed at the waist, bear the stigmata, the wounds of the nails that pinned him to the cross. The blood from these wounds also flows vividly, staining his skin.

The painting's composition, with Christ's body centered and filling most of the frame, draws the viewer's attention to his suffering. The dark background further emphasizes his figure and the somber mood of the piece. The realistic depiction of Christ's wounds and the artist's attention to detail enhance the emotional impact of the painting, inviting contemplation on the sacrifice of Christ.