The Crucifixion

Von Aachen, a leading late Mannerist in the North, was formed principally in Italy during a long sojourn, then active throughout South Germany before settling at the court of Rudolf II in Prague. His mature style is nearly of the sophistica-tion of his Rudolfine colleague, Bartholomaeus Spranger, but tending toward less precious affect and more impetuous handling. This grand study is typical in its sweeping rhythms, stylized attitudes, and morphology. However, relative to other such drawings by von Aachen, the application of wash, the fine hatching, and in general the touch seem too deliberated and may indicate the work of a close follower.