Christ at the Column

This was painted for the Abbey of Chiaravalle, near Milan. Mentioned by Lomazzo in Idea as a work by Bramante, other critics ascribe the painting to Bramantino. Still others see it as a collaboration between the two artists.

Christ’s torso, carved like a column, is a fine example of the geometrical monumentality that was Bramante’s inspiration not only as an architect but also as a painter. Through the window we can see a landscape with many watercourses. Light glints realistically on Christ’s curly hair. Both of these features can he related to similar work by Leonardo during his stay in Milan.