The Dead Christ Supported by Angels (Pietà with Angels), Bartholomeus Spranger, c. 1587
oil (organic material), h 33.7cm × w 26.6cm More details
Angels support the dead body of Christ in front of his tomb. In the basket are nails and a crown of thorns: the instruments of his Passion. This small, stirring depiction was intended for private devotion and to arouse compassion as well as hope for redemption after death. Bartholomeus Spranger was one of the most influential artists in Europe in the 16th century and court painter to Emperor Rudolf II in Prague, whose exceptional art collection was internationally acclaimed.
