The artwork, titled “Entombment” and executed by Fra Angelico between 1438 and 1440, exemplifies the Early Renaissance art movement. This piece, created using tempera on a panel, measures 38 x 46 cm and fits within the genre of religious painting. It is part of the San Marco Altarpiece series and is currently housed in the Alte Pinakothek in Munich, Germany.
The artwork depicts the solemn scene of the entombment of Christ. Central to the painting is the lifeless body of Christ, being tenderly laid to rest. Fra Angelico’s delicate touch and mastery of tempera are evident in the soft rendering of the figures, characterized by their haloed heads, which convey a divine aura. The sorrowful expressions and gently flowing drapery of the mourners accentuate the somber mood of the scene. The rocky, cave-like tomb in the background and the sparse yet flourishing vegetation in the foreground create a contemplative setting for this poignant moment. The muted color palette enhances the spiritual and introspective atmosphere of the entombment, pulling the viewers into a space of reverence and reflection.
