This painting entered the museum’s collection as the work of an anonymous Italian artist. It has been attributed to Felice Brusasorci, whose style is indebted to Florentine Mannerism and characterized by elongated figures, twisting lyrical poses, and unnatural use of color. In accordance with contemporary Catholic devotional practices, the faithful would have empathized with Christ’s humanity as conveyed through his pale, stiff, lifeless body. The artist has exploited the unusual slate support, a smooth, dark surface used to enhance the painting’s dramatic night-time effect.

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