The Baptism of Our Lord

by Isabella Childs December 31, 2020

Jesus at the river

    This is a painting of the Baptism of Our Lord, by Antoine Coypel.


    In the painting, Christ kneels on some rocks in front of a small pool of water. The Savior has pale skin and light brown hair. He wears a blue cloak, which hangs from his left shoulder.  The Savior gazes downwards, crossing his hands at his chest, while Saint John the Baptist pours water over His head.


    St. John stands over Christ, pouring water over the Savior’s head with a large shell. John has shoulder-length, brown hair and a thin beard. He wears a fur tunic and a red cloak, which is wrapped around his waist. St. John the Baptist looks upwards, above Christ’s head, at the Holy Ghost.


    The Holy Ghost is depicted as a dove, surrounded by a circle of light, in the air above Our Lord’s head.


    Above the Holy Ghost is God the Father. Only His face, hands, and part of His robe are visible. The Father is depicted as an old man with flowing white hair and a beard. He looks down at Christ while extending both of His hands slightly to either side. Above the Father’s head are some dark clouds. Between the clouds and the Father’s head, there is some yellow light. The outlines of cherubs are visible in the yellow light. Two angels, positioned behind Christ, hold up a white cloth behind the Savior’s head.

    Download the digitally-restored artwork here.




Isabella Childs
Isabella Childs

Author


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Catholic Art Blog

St. Jerome in Meditation by Caravaggio
St. Jerome in Meditation by Caravaggio

by Anastasia Thomas March 18, 2023

The artwork is exceptional not only for its technical prowess but also for its emotive impact. Caravaggio skillfully captures the intensity of St. Jerome's focus and dedication, inviting the viewer to participate in his contemplative state. 

Continue Reading

Esau Sold His Birthright by Stom
Esau Sold His Birthright by Stom

by Anastasia Thomas March 14, 2023

Stom employs a somber and subdued color palette, with Esau depicted in the foreground, holding his hands together in front of him as he gazes down at the bowl of stew before him.

Continue Reading

A Nun Looking out the Window by Leighton
A Nun Looking out the Window by Leighton

by Anastasia Thomas March 14, 2023

Continue Reading