Italian or Spanish school, following models of RAFAEL DE SANZIO; 18th century and later.

Italian or Spanish school, following models of RAFAEL DE SANZIO; XVIII century and later.
"Christ on the way to Calvary".
Oil on canvas. Relined.
Measurements: 200 x 140 cm.
This painting follows the model of Raphael de Sanzio preserved in the Prado Museum. The fall on the way of the Calavario was originally commissioned by Jacopo Basilio for the monastery of Santa Maria dello Spasimo in Palermo. The work reflects Raphael's particular interest in exploring the limits of the representation of extreme physical and psychological states.
The canvas is articulated around a compositional framework of converging diagonals on the figure of the fallen Christ, a resource that gives dynamism to the scene and organizes the multitude of characters in a precise manner. The construction responds to the same logic that underlies the Vatican tapestry cartoons, where the narrative unfolds with an elevated, almost theatrical tone, but never confusing.
A fundamental aspect of the iconography lies in the representation of the Virgin, who appears suffering and moved, but without fading away. This plastic decision is inserted in the theological debate of the moment about the intensity of the Marian pain during the Passion, showing the official position of the Church.
Since its execution, it has been considered one of Raphael's most admired works, and legendary stories have been woven around it, among them the famous shipwreck narrated by Vasari in relation to its transfer, whose veracity has been questioned by recent historiography.
After its arrival in Spain, the painting was ceded to King Philip IV by the viceroy of Sicily and in 1661 it was destined for the main altar of the Alcazar chapel, consolidating its prestige in the courtly sphere and reinforcing its place among the masterpieces of the royal collection.