Spring

Christ Is Risen

1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Mag'dalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.

2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

4 and for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.

5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.

10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

Giovanni Bellini

ca. 1430 - 1516

Venetian painter, son of Jacopo Bellini (approx 1400–1471) brother of Gentile Bellini (approx 1429–1507), both painters.

At first Giovanni is influenced by the work of his contemporary and family-member Andrea Mantegna. Later he develops a style of his own, with softer shapes and exuding an almost poetic atmosphere.

Bellini paints mostly religious pieces, among which a series of lovely Madonnas. One of the most prominent painters in Venice of his time. As such put in charge of the fabrication of the decorations in the Doges Palace, lost in a fire in 1577.