Descent from the Cross

In John 19, Jesus suffers death by crucifixion at the hands of the Romans. His body is removed by his loved ones as they lament together. This moment, traditionally called the Deposition, or Descent from the Cross, has since been depicted by hundreds of artists, each interpreting the emotional process in their own way.

The earliest renderings of this scene appeared in the ninth century and soon became part of a cycle of the life of Christ and his passion, later known as the Stations of the Cross. The compositions vary, but certain figures are typically present: Joseph of Arimathea, clothed in rich garments, works with Nicodemus to remove Christ from the cross; the Virgin Mary swoons nearby or hold her son in the traditional composition known as the pietà; and John the Evangelist, typically dressed in red, assists Mary. Occasionally, there are other unnamed figures or additional women, such as the sisters and mother of the Virgin Mary, and Mary Magdalene.

Descent from the Cross explores how 20 artists across five centuries, multiple genres, and mixed media have visualized the moment Jesus is removed from the cross. It is a moment of sadness and uncertainty, but also one of anticipation, for in the next chapter of John, Jesus is resurrected!

• The exhibit consists of 20 framed prints and drawings that are ready to hang.
• The exhibit travels in two professionally packed crates according to a detailed list.
• Venues should allow for approximately 40 linear feet for a double-hung exhibition or 80 linear feet for a single-hung exhibition.
• Exhibition space must be shielded from natural light, food, and drink. It must also be kept at a consistent temperature of approximately 70 degrees (plus or minus 2) and, if possible, a consistent humidity of 50%. If this is a concern, please contact us to discuss options.
• Exhibition space must have appropriate security measures in place such as cameras, 24-hour response, guards on site (either roaming or static), lockable doors, and alarms.
• Marketing assets will be provided for use by the venue. Production of marketing materials and local promotion is the responsibility of the venue.
• The rental fee for Descent from the Cross is $1,000/month for a minimum of 3 months. An additional week before and after is allowed for shipping and installation. Additional months may be purchased to extend the exhibition schedule.
• Shipping fees are not included in the exhibition fee. In-bound shipping is covered either by Museum of the Bible or by the previous venue, out-bound shipping is the responsibility of the current venue.
• For additional questions, see our Frequently Asked Questions or contact us through the inquiry form.

Available after December 2026.