Road to Calvary, at center Veronica kneels before Christ and holding the Sudarium 1651 - 1665

Editor: So, this is “Road to Calvary, at center Veronica kneels before Christ and holding the Sudarium,” an engraving dating from the mid-17th century. There's so much activity packed into the scene. It’s overwhelming, really, and kind of…sad. What catches your eye? Curator: It's like looking at a dream, isn't it? A vivid, albeit painful one. My eyes are drawn to Veronica. Notice the almost radiant way she holds the sudarium – that small cloth bears the imprint of the divine. Imagine the courage to step forward, amidst all that brutality, offering solace. Do you sense that intimacy of the moment amidst such clamor and hostility? Editor: Absolutely. The contrast between the kindness of Veronica and the chaos around her is really powerful. But what about the rest of the crowd? There are so many figures… Curator: They are like pieces of our own selves, aren't they? There’s apathy, cruelty, fear… but then glimpses of empathy too, here and there. It’s a reminder that we all carry those conflicting emotions within us, especially in moments of suffering. What about the landscape behind? It almost feels indifferent to all of this pain, don’t you think? Editor: It's strangely peaceful compared to the figures. Almost surreal. It makes the suffering feel even more isolated somehow. Curator: Yes! Almost like a stage, setting off the human drama unfolding on it. Now I'm thinking, imagine being the artist at that time? Reflecting on such a tragic scene. It makes me appreciate this piece and Boel's talent in telling such an expressive story using black lines, shading, light, and contrast, almost more than I had at first glance. Thanks for walking me through this! Editor: The story really does pull you in. Thanks for all your help interpreting the narrative!