Communie van Judas Iskariot 1540 - 1560

This engraving, titled "Communion of Judas Iscariot," presents a symmetrical composition filled with expressive figures rendered in fine lines. The stark contrast between light and shadow heightens the drama of the scene, drawing our eye to Christ at the center of the table. The image's structure reflects the theological tension of the narrative. The balanced arrangement of the apostles contrasts sharply with the unease suggested by their gestures and expressions, hinting at the betrayal to come. Judas's position, subtly set apart yet still within the group, embodies a disruption of unity, unsettling the formal harmony. Notice how the artist uses line to define form and convey emotion. The dense hatching creates depth and texture, while the varying line weights emphasize the play of light and shadow. This interplay not only adds visual interest but also underscores the moral ambiguities central to the story. The artwork invites us to consider how formal elements can serve to destabilize established meanings, prompting us to question the nature of faith, loyalty, and deception.