Jean Ranc’s painting of Christ on the cross was probably intended for devotions in a private chapel. Chiaroscuro, or the richly contrasting use of light and shade with an almost monochromatic effect, was a hallmark of the artist. Equally exceptional is the ornately sculpted frame, a masterpiece of the Régence (the early Rococo style). Ranc was a pupil of Hyacinthe Rigaud and married to his teacher’s niece. 3/1-22 Jean Ranc is one of the lesser-known, but nonetheless important, French painters from the early 18th century. He was a student of Hyacinthe Rigaud, and married to Rigaud’s niece. Stylistically, Ranc adhered closely to his mentor, as seen in this crucifixion, with its sublime chiaroscuro rendering. It was made just before Ranc left to become a royal court painter in Madrid in 1722. The richly sculpted and gilt frame, which is an integral part of the work, is a masterpiece from the Régence period