Christ on the Cross between Two Thieves
c. 1590
Medium
Engraving on ivory laid paper
Dimensions
Sheet: 42 × 30.7 cm (16 9/16 × 12 1/8 in.)
Classification
engraving
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
268663
Art Historical Context
Jacques de Gheyn II (5–1629), a leading Dutch engraver and draftsman from the Haarlem school, created *Christ on the Cross between Thieves* around 1590. This striking engraving on ivory laid paper captures the pivotal biblical moment of the Crucifixion, flanked by the penitent and unrepentant thieves—a scene drawn from the Gospels emphasizing themes of redemption and judgment. Measuring 42 × 30.7 cm, the print exemplifies the Mannerist style prevalent in the late 16th century, with its elongated figures, dramatic contrasts, and intricate line work that convey intense emotion and spiritual dept...
About the Artist
Jacques de Gheyn, II · 1565–1629
Jacques de Gheyn II (1565–1629) was born in Antwerp into an artistic family, receiving his earliest instruction from his father, Jacob de Gheyn I, a skilled glass painter, engraver, and draftsman. In 1585, the young de Gheyn moved to Haarlem, where he spent five formative years studying under Hendrik Goltzius, one of the most celebrated engravers of the Northern Renaissance. This apprenticeship pr...