Figure of the Risen Christ

Michelangelo created the figure of the Risen Christ around 1512 as a preparatory study for an altarpiece depicting the Resurrection theme that Pope Julius II commissioned for the Sistine Chapel in celebration of his victories achieved in his campaign to strengthen his power in the Papal State. In the end, the Pontiff abandoned the plan. Eventually, the drawing was brought to the royal collections in Windsor. The print was made by Francesco Bartolozzi, and Italian graphic artist who, in 1764, became royal engraver to King George III of England. He also earned his fame by reproducing drawings whose nature was superbly captured through the newly-devised crayon-manner technique. Bartolozzi lived in Britain until 1802 and was held in high esteem.