Artwork

The Round Passion: Christ before the High Priest

The Round Passion: Christ before the High Priest, by Lucas van Leyden, 1509
The Round Passion: Christ before the High Priest, by Lucas van Leyden, 1509

The Round Passion: Christ before the High Priest is a print by the Renaissance artist Lucas van Leyden. It dates from 1509 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Round Passion: Christ before the High Priest is a print created by Lucas van Leyden in 1509. It is a circular composition with intricate border decorations.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a crowded interior scene with a central group surrounding a seated figure labeled 'Anna', likely representing the high priest Annas or Caiaphas. The scene is a biblical narrative, showing Christ being interrogated.

Technique & Style

The work showcases van Leyden's skill in engraving, with detailed figures and architectural elements. The circular format and ornate border demonstrate his technical proficiency and attention to composition.

History & Provenance

The print is part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art. Van Leyden was a Dutch artist known for his work in engraving and woodcut, and this piece reflects his early engagement with biblical themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Lucas van Leyden

Artist

Lucas van Leyden

Lucas van Leyden (1494 – 8 August 1533), was a Dutch painter and printmaker in engraving and woodcut. Lucas van Leyden was among the first Dutch exponents of genre painting and was a very accomplished engraver.

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