Christ on the Mount of Olives c. 1511

Curator: This woodcut, "Christ on the Mount of Olives," an anonymous work, showcases the moment of Christ’s betrayal and arrest. Editor: It feels incredibly fraught. The compression of figures and the sharp, graphic lines convey a sense of impending doom and social unrest. Curator: Note the figures' placement—Christ kneeling in prayer, juxtaposed against the approaching soldiers and Judas's kiss. Observe, too, how the sleeping disciples underscore a sense of abandonment and betrayal. Editor: Absolutely. The artist's choice to portray Judas embracing Christ highlights the performative nature of betrayal, reflecting how power dynamics and social norms were weaponized. Curator: Indeed. This image is not merely a depiction but a potent symbol of human frailty, power, and sacrifice. Editor: Ultimately, it reminds us how easily social structures can be used to justify oppression and violence, even in the name of justice.