Jan Wellens de Cock (c. 1475/80 – before 1527) was a Flemish painter and draftsman of the Northern Renaissance, active primarily in Antwerp. Little is known about his life, but he is believed to have been born in Leiden, later becoming a master in the Guild of Saint Luke in Antwerp around 1506. De Cock is associated with Antwerp Mannerism and is recognized for his expressive forms and fantastical interpretations, continuing the traditions of Hieronymus Bosch. His legacy includes influences on both his sons, Matthijs and Hieronymus Cock, who also became notable artists.

“Christ on the Sea of Galilee” by Jan Wellens de Cock is a striking example of Antwerp Mannerism. This Flemish artist captures the miracle described in the Gospel of Mark from the New Testament, where Jesus demonstrates his power over nature by calming a storm on the Sea of Galilee. De Cock captures a pivotal moment: the exhausted Christ sleeps peacefully, while his terrified disciples attempt to wake him, having lost hope for survival amidst the raging sea.

De Cock’s figures are expressive and carefully composed, lending a sense of stark realism to the scene. The contrast between Jesus’ calm, child-like sleeping pose and the palpable despair and fear of death etched on his disciples’ faces is particularly striking. The artist masterfully conveys the characters of these simple men, overwhelmed by the fury of the elements despite the distant visibility of the coast.

This vivid and lifelike depiction would have deeply resonated with viewers of the time, making the divine miracle tangible and serving as compelling evidence of God’s power manifested through his Son. The painting’s realism and spectacle effectively brought the biblical narrative to life, allowing contemporary audiences to feel the presence of the divine in a visceral way.