“Resurrection of Christ” is an oil on panel painting created by Giovanni Bellini between 1475 and 1479. This Early Renaissance religious painting measures 128 x 148 cm. The artwork features a vivid depiction of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a core theme in Christian iconography. Adhering to the stylistic and thematic elements typical of the Early Renaissance, Bellini’s work manifests a profound spiritual narrative through meticulous detail and balanced composition.
The artwork primarily depicts the risen Christ elevated in the sky, signifying his triumph over death. Draped in a white shroud and holding a victory banner, Jesus exudes an aura of divine light and serenity. Below him are assorted figures, including soldiers and onlookers, exemplifying a range of responses to the miraculous event. The background showcases a detailed landscape with rocky formations, trees, and a distant walled city, adding depth and context to the central scene. The use of light and shadow is masterful, enhancing the ethereal quality of Christ’s resurrection while grounding the earthly observers in a more somber palette. This juxtaposition underscores the miraculous nature of the central event against the stark reality of the human condition.