Artwork

The Flagellation

The Flagellation, by French 16th Century, ink, 1550
The Flagellation, by French 16th Century, ink, 1550

The Flagellation is an ink print by the Renaissance artist French 16th Century. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

This woodcut shows Christ tied to a column, whipped by Roman soldiers.

This woodcut shows Christ tied to a column, whipped by Roman soldiers. The scene feels harsh in black and white, like a sharp memory. The artist layered ink to show muscle and shadow.

This print is a later copy made in 1968. The original from 1570 was small and rare. The green tint adds a cold glow to the violence.

See how the lines cut deep into the wood. Try woodcut at home with linoleum blocks.

technique: woodcut

Overview

The Flagellation is a woodcut print depicting the biblical scene of Christ being whipped by Roman soldiers.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows Christ tied to a column, conveying a sense of harshness and violence. The scene is a representation of a pivotal moment in Christian iconography.

Technique & Style

The woodcut technique is evident in the deep-cut lines, characteristic of the medium. The artist achieved nuanced shading and texture through layered ink, emphasizing muscle and shadow.

History & Provenance

Originally created in 1570, this print is a 1968 restrike, made from the original woodblock. The green tint of the ink gives the image a distinct, cold tone.

Artist & collection

Portrait of French 16th Century

Artist

French 16th Century

A French artist from the 1500s made metal sculptures and prints that feel like Renaissance snapshots.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.