Museum of the Bible Presents Collection of Sacred Art During Easter in ‘Descent from the Cross’

Washington, D.C., April 1, 2025 — Museum of the Bible invites audiences of all ages to visit and reflect on the story of Easter at its “Descent from the Cross” exhibit, a collection of timeless works of art depicting the emotional moment between Jesus’ death and his entombment.

The exhibit presents dramatic depictions of Jesus being lowered from the cross by loved ones — the “deposition” or “descent from the cross” — by 21 artists from five centuries and various geographical regions and cultures. Featured artists include heralded names such as the German Renaissance painter Albrecht Dürer, the 20th-century Spanish Surrealist Salvador Dalí and the 20th-century Japanese printmaker Sadao Watanabe. 

“At this season of heightened reflection for Christians all over the world, and remembrance of Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection, we are honored to feature this sacred art from around the world,” said Dr. Bobby Duke, chief curatorial officer at Museum of the Bible. “These depictions focus on one of the most moving and heart-rending moments in the Bible and in human history — a moment that has been immortalized by hundreds of accomplished artists since at least the ninth century. This art lends itself to deep prayer, reflection and hope during the Easter season.” 

The depictions of Jesus’ “descent” utilize artistic styles and details particular to the artists’ eras and cultures. Several biblical figures are commonly depicted, including Joseph of Arimathea, who works with Nicodemus to remove Christ from the cross, the Virgin Mary, and John the Evangelist. The beauty, uniqueness and diversity of the art pieces make this collection a must-see for both art enthusiasts and general observers. 

The artwork is on loan from Jerry and Kristen Stockton, artist Theodore Prescott and Bowden Collections, a private collection by Sandra Bowden, one of the founders of CIVA, Christians in the Visual Arts, and former board member for MoBiA, the Museum of Biblical Art, in New York. It is currently open to general audiences at Museum of the Bible until May 5. 

In addition to “Descent from the Cross,” Museum of the Bible will also host a series of special exhibits and events around the Easter holiday, including “Stations of the Cross,” a walking pilgrimage through the museum focusing on Jesus’ suffering and death before his resurrection, a special Easter-themed musical performance, and a documentary film screening on the earliest-known Christian hymn. 

“We invite all audiences to join us for Easter at Museum of the Bible to experience the inspiring biblical story of hope,” said Garrett Hinton, chief revenue officer. “It is our sincere hope that our exhibits and experiences speak to the millions who see this time of year as a sacred time.” 

The interactive experience “Stations of the Cross” is a walking pilgrimage through the museum featuring a series of statues by renowned bronze sculptor Gib Singleton, depicting 14 events from the last hours of Jesus’s life. 

“Stations of the Cross” is based on the centuries-old Christian devotion of prayerfully walking the Via Dolorosa, or “Way of Sorrow,” in commemoration of Jesus’ path to Calvary. Each of the 14 stations at Museum of the Bible is sculpted to convey a spiritual and emotional connection to the soul. 

Museum of the Bible is also hosting other performances, events and promotions around the celebration of Easter: 

●           On April 15, the museum will host a reception and screening of the documentary "The First Hymn" about the earliest-known Christian hymn, with a special performance by artists Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding. 

●           On April 17, Nashville singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson will perform songs from his “Resurrection Letters” album series, which tell the beautiful story of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

About Museum of the Bible

Museum of the Bible is an apolitical, non-sectarian organization that invites all people to engage with the transformative power of the Bible. Located just three blocks from the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., the stunning 430,000-square-foot museum showcases rare and fascinating artifacts spanning 4,000 years of history and immersive experiences exploring the Bible. In addition to its educational programs, exhibits and experiences, Museum of the Bible hosts the beautiful 480-seat World Stage Theater. To learn more, visit museumoftheBible.org.

Press Contact: Kellie Koch, PR Manager, press@mBible.org