Christus aan het kruis before 1646

"Christus aan het kruis" is a woodcut made by Christoffel van Sichem the Younger in the 17th century. Sichem was working in a period marked by religious conflict and the rise of print culture, which allowed for the wide dissemination of images and ideas. The print depicts the crucifixion of Christ, a central event in Christian theology, surrounded by mourning figures. Consider how the image invites viewers to contemplate themes of sacrifice, suffering, and redemption. Sichem’s detailed rendering captures a pivotal moment in Christian narrative, reflecting both the spiritual and emotional weight of the crucifixion. It invites reflection on the themes of faith, suffering, and the potential for divine grace in human experience. Looking closely, we might also notice how the artist uses the stark contrast of black ink on white paper to enhance the emotional impact of the scene. This design emphasizes the agony of Christ and the grief of those who mourn him. In its emphasis on pathos, the work encourages us to reflect on mortality and the search for meaning in times of despair.