“The Resurrection,” crafted by Sandro Botticelli around 1490, is a religious painting from the Early Renaissance, currently housed in the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton, Canada. The artwork, measuring 32.1 x 106.4 cm, epitomizes Botticelli’s profound skill in capturing spiritual themes with grace and delicacy.
The artwork depicts the figure of Christ triumphantly emerging from the tomb, signifying His resurrection. Draped in a flowing white robe, Christ holds a flag adorned with the cross of St. George, symbolizing victory over death. His right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing. To the left and right of Him, two Roman soldiers are depicted slumbering, oblivious to the divine event transpiring before them. The background features a serene landscape with cliffs and greenery, contributing to the overall serene and sublime atmosphere. This portrayal emphasizes the central Christian tenet of resurrection, rendered with Botticelli’s characteristic elegance and the intricate detailing typical of the Early Renaissance.