Deposition (detail)

Pontormo’s figure of Christ may be compared to Michelangelo’s marble figure of Christ in his Pietà in St Peter’s. Although Pontormo tends to de-emphasize the sculptural qualities of his figures, he was nonetheless an ardent admirer and friend of Michelangelo. The painting demonstrates Pontormo’s power as a draftsman, particularly in his treatment of forms: the contours, as well as the hands and features facial, are impeccably rendered.