Tomás de Merlo
Lamentation over the Dead Christ, Antigua Guatemala, 1694-1739
ca. 1730-1739
Oil on copper
Oil on copper
59.5 x 46.5 cm
Signed: Merlo facat en Guathemala
Signed: Merlo facat en Guathemala
This masterpiece by Tomás de Merlo, one of Guatemala's finest artists, is a miraculous discovery that reveals the artist's extraordinary skill and emotional depth. The painting captures the intense theological themes of Christ's Passion, with its profound portrayal of the Pietà—Christ’s lifeless body held by the grieving Virgin Mary. Merlo’s masterful use of light, shadow, and color brings a sense of realism and dramatic intensity to the scene. His meticulous attention to detail, from the anguished expressions of the figures to the symbolic elements surrounding them, showcases his unparalleled talent. This true gem of Guatemalan Baroque art, is a testament to Merlo's legacy and his significant contribution to religious art in the region.
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