Pilate attempting to discharge Christ, from 'Iconographia' 1670

Melchior Küsel created this print, *Pilate attempting to discharge Christ*, as part of his 'Iconographia' series. The image is sharply divided into two distinct spaces, drawing our eyes across the plate: the left side shows an outdoor scene with gathering crowds; the right, an enclosed interior where Pilate sits in judgement. The composition leverages the architectural elements—columns and archways—to frame and separate the exterior from the interior. This division is critical to the overall meaning of the piece. Notice how the artist uses linear perspective to draw us into the depths of the space, emphasizing the figures of Christ and Pilate. The formal structure here isn’t merely decorative; it's a deliberate choice that engages with ideas around power and authority. Küsel's structured composition reinforces the idea of distinct spheres of influence, both religious and political, and it invites us to question the relationship between them. The scene acts as a powerful stage for exploring conflicts between justice, power, and moral responsibility.