Gustave Doré
1832-1883
Nailing of Christ to the Cross
1860s
8 1/16 x 10 3/8 inches (205 x 263 mm)
Black chalk on paper.
2009.115
The Joseph F. McCrindle Collection.
Notes
Gustave Doré was one of the most celebrated book illustrators of the nineteenth century. In 1866, Alfred Maine et Fils of Tours published a lavish edition of the Vulgate Bible translated into French with two hundred and twenty-eight plates by Doré. The edition received immediate praise and was republished the same year in London, Stuttgart, Prague, Milan, Amsterdam, and Chicago.
While working on his bible illustrations, Doré drew many preparatory studies in black chalk for the figure of Christ, using his brother Ernest as a model. This loosely sketched drawing is similar in composition to the plate featuring Christ being nailed to the cross, though with variations in the placement and dress of the figures.
While working on his bible illustrations, Doré drew many preparatory studies in black chalk for the figure of Christ, using his brother Ernest as a model. This loosely sketched drawing is similar in composition to the plate featuring Christ being nailed to the cross, though with variations in the placement and dress of the figures.
Associated names
McCrindle, Joseph F., former owner.
Artist
Classification
Century Drawings
School
Catalog link
Department