The Entombment
Classification
religion
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Bequest of George Campbell Cooper
Accession Number
1896-3-104
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
"The Entombment," created around 1588 by Italian artist Diana Mantuana, captures a poignant moment from the Christian narrative of Christ's burial. As a work classified under religion, it invites viewers to reflect on themes of sacrifice and compassion central to Renaissance devotional art. Mantuana, active during the late sixteenth century, contributed to the rich tradition of Italian printmaking and engraving that helped spread religious imagery across Europe. Though details about its medium remain under research, the piece reflects the cultural importance of biblical subjects in late Renaissance Italy. Mantuana's work stands out as an example of artistic production by women in a period when such contributions were uncommon. Now part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection through the bequest of George Campbell Cooper, the artwork offers visitors a window into both spiritual devotion and the artistic networks of its time.