Mocking of Christ 

Rembrandt van Rijn likely made this drawing, Mocking of Christ, in the mid-17th century using pen and brown ink on paper. The choice of such simple materials and this freehand technique underscores the scene's raw emotional quality. Looking at the lines, they vary from quick, energetic strokes to slower, more deliberate marks that define form and shadow. Ink on paper is immediate. There’s little room for error and the artist’s hand is clearly visible. The spontaneity allowed Rembrandt to capture fleeting expressions and gestures, enhancing the narrative's urgency. It's a medium that democratizes the art-making process, contrasting with the period's more elaborate and formal artistic productions, where labor and skill were often masked. By focusing on process and material, we gain a deeper appreciation for Rembrandt's ability to convey profound human experiences through humble means. The drawing serves as a reminder of the expressive power inherent in simple materials, elevating the status of craft within the broader context of fine art.