The resurrection of Christ, holding a banner in his right hand, soldiers surrounding the tomb, some falling away

Art Historical Context

This 1561 etching and engraving captures the dramatic moment of Christ’s Resurrection, with the risen Savior holding a victory banner while soldiers recoil in awe around his empty tomb. Created by Giulio Bonasone after a design by the great Venetian master Titian, the print translates Titian’s dynamic composition into the precise language of line and tone. The combination of etching and engraving allowed Bonasone to render both delicate details and strong contrasts, making the scene vivid even in black and white. Produced in the mid-sixteenth century, the work reflects the Renaissance interest in dramatic religious narrative and the growing importance of printmaking. Such prints enabled Titian’s inventive ideas to reach audiences far beyond Venice, spreading influential images of key biblical events across Europe. The soldiers’ varied poses—some tumbling backward, others shielding their eyes—heighten the sense of miraculous power. Today in the Metropolitan Museum’s collection, this sheet exemplifies how collaborative printmaking bridged painting and popular devotion, preserving Titian’s vision in a portable, reproducible form that continues to inspire viewers with its energy and clarity.

About the Artist

Giulio Bonasone|Titian (Tiziano Vecellio) · 1500–1600

Comment on works: History; Mythology