The artwork titled “Study of ‘Christ on the Cross between the Virgin and St. John the Evangelist'” is a chalk sketch on paper created by the renowned artist Michelangelo around the years 1552 to 1554 in Italy. This piece, reflective of the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement, serves as a sketch and study genre and is housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, France.
The artwork depicts a preliminary study for a composition featuring the crucifixion of Christ, flanked by two significant religious figures, the Virgin Mary and St. John the Evangelist. Rendered in light and airy strokes of chalk, the central figure of Christ dominates the composition, his body stretched out on the cross. On either side of Christ, ethereal outlines of the Virgin and St. John are suggested, their forms less defined, invoking a feeling of solemnity and contemplation. The use of chalk on paper allows for a delicate and expressive exploration of forms, characteristic of Michelangelo’s masterful draftsmanship. The sketch not only highlights the artist’s technical skill but also his ability to convey profound emotion through minimal lines and shading.
