Artwork

The Passion: The Flagellation

The Passion: The Flagellation, by Hendrik Goltzius, 1597
The Passion: The Flagellation, by Hendrik Goltzius, 1597

The Passion: The Flagellation is a print by the Renaissance artist Hendrik Goltzius. It dates from 1597 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Passion: The Flagellation is an engraving by Goltzius depicting a pivotal moment in the Passion of Christ.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Jesus being flogged by two men while bound to a column, his muscular body contrasting with his anguished face. The event is set in a compressed urban space, heightening the sense of intensity and urgency.

Technique & Style

The engraving employs chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a dramatic effect, contributing to the overall intensity of the scene.

History & Provenance

This print is part of a series of 12 illustrating the Passion of Christ, which was highly popular during Goltzius's lifetime and inspired numerous copies.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hendrik Goltzius

Artist

Hendrik Goltzius

Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.

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