The Baptism of Christ
The Met
Artist: Sebastiano Ricci(Italian, Belluno 1659–1734 Venice)
Date: ca. 1713–14
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 26 x 40 in. (66 x 101.6 cm)
Credit Line: Purchase, Rogers and Gwynne Andrews Funds, and Gift of Jane L. Melville, by exchange, 1981
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
A man pouring water on another man's head, with figures, winged beings, and a dove, in an ornate arch
Detailed Description
A rectangular image depicts a crowded scene framed by an illusionistic, light gray architectural archway. The arch is highly ornate, featuring sculpted figures and decorative elements. At the top center of the arch, a cartouche contains the Latin text "HIC EST FILIUS MEUS DILECTUS". On the left and right pillars of the arch, standing on pedestals, are full-length statues of robed figures, with smaller sculpted figures above them. Within the arch, the central scene unfolds under a sky filled with swirling clouds in shades of orange, brown, and gray. A bright light emanates from the upper left, from which a white dove descends. Below the dove, a cluster of small winged figures floats on clouds, and further down, a large winged figure with prominent white wings and white drapery is visible. In the center foreground, a muscular man with a loincloth stands on a rock to the right, pouring water from a small bowl onto the head of a younger man. The younger man, also wearing a loincloth, kneels in the water, looking upwards. Numerous figures surround them, some partially submerged in the water, others standing or sitting on the banks. On the left, several figures are seen undressing or waiting. On the right, a group of figures observes the scene, with one man in the immediate foreground removing a red cloak. The background features dark green trees and foliage, with hints of distant structures. The immediate foreground consists of dark earth and water, with discarded clothing items scattered about.
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