Artwork

Pilate Washing His Hands [recto]

Pilate Washing His Hands [recto], by German 15th Century, ink, 1445
Pilate Washing His Hands [recto], by German 15th Century, ink, 1445

Pilate Washing His Hands [recto] is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1445 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Pilate Washing His Hands is a woodcut print depicting a pivotal biblical moment.

About this work

Overview

Pilate Washing His Hands is a woodcut print depicting a pivotal biblical moment. Executed on laid paper and enhanced with hand-coloring in a range of hues, the work captures the narrative intensity of Pilate's gesture.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates the biblical account of Pontius Pilate washing his hands to symbolize his claimed innocence in the crucifixion of Jesus. The scene juxtaposes Pilate's physical cleansing with the moral implications of his actions, prompting reflections on guilt, responsibility, and redemption.

Technique & Style

Technically, the work combines woodcut with meticulous hand-coloring (in lavender, rose, green, yellow, brown, blue, and red), adding depth and emotional resonance. Stylistically, it adheres to Renaissance principles, evident in its detailed rendering and symbolic use of color.

History & Provenance

[Thin Facts - Brief Placeholder] Due to limited information, the historical context and ownership history of this specific print are not detailed here. Further research would be required to elucidate its provenance and creation date.

Context

Created within the Renaissance aesthetic, this print would have been understood by its contemporary audience as a visual morality tale, leveraging the well-known biblical narrative to explore complex ethical themes.

Legacy

As a religious print from its time, 'Pilate Washing His Hands' contributes to the visual canon of biblical illustrations, influencing subsequent depictions of the scene through its detailed, symbol-rich approach.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 15th Century

Artist

German 15th Century

This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.

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