The Descent from the Cross 17th century

This print depicts the emotionally charged scene of the Descent from the Cross, rendered with fine lines. Christ's limp body is the focal point, surrounded by grieving figures. The image is filled with symbolism rooted in Christian theology; the cross itself represents sacrifice and redemption. Consider how the motif of the Pietà—the Virgin Mary cradling the dead Christ—resonates here. This composition has ancient roots, echoing the emotional intensity of mourning figures found in ancient Greek sculpture. In both, the emphasis on pathos engages viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into our shared experiences of loss and empathy. The halo, a later addition to religious iconography, signifies divinity, yet here, it serves to heighten the contrast between the sacred and the all-too-human vulnerability of Christ's lifeless body. This juxtaposition evokes a powerful emotional response, reminding us of the cyclical nature of suffering and renewal throughout history.