The artwork, titled “Entombment of Christ,” is an oil on canvas masterpiece created by the renowned artist Caravaggio around the year 1603. This painting, embodying the Baroque and Tenebrism movements, measures 300 by 203 centimeters. It is a religious painting and is currently housed in the Vatican Museums, Vatican.
The artwork powerfully depicts the moment when the body of Christ, lifeless and heavy, is being lowered into his tomb. The use of Tenebrism is evident as Caravaggio masterfully utilizes the stark contrasts between light and dark to draw focus to the central figures against a dark background. The emotional intensity is palpable through the solemn expressions and dramatic gestures of the surrounding figures—Mary Magdalene, Mary the Mother of James, Nicodemus, and John—each caught in a moment of profound sorrow and grief. The meticulous detailing and realistic portrayal of human anatomy highlight Caravaggio’s exceptional skill and contribute to the poignant and immersive experience of the scene.