Christus zegent de kinderen 1870 - 1886

Adolphe Joseph Thomas Monticelli’s painting, "Christus zegent de kinderen," is a work of oil on panel, a traditional medium used to depict the biblical scene of Christ blessing the children. Monticelli was known for his impasto technique, building up thick layers of paint. Look closely and you'll see how the material’s texture influences the overall appearance, with the rough, tactile surface catching light in a way that adds depth and luminosity to the scene. The way Monticelli handled paint has a significance all of its own. In contrast to smooth, academic painting styles, the work's visible brushstrokes and textured surface impart a sense of movement and energy to the scene. It is a reminder that a painting is not just an image, but also a crafted object, which invites the viewer to consider the artistic labor involved in its creation. The emphasis on materials and making challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.