Christ carrying the cross, at right the two thieves on the road to Calvary, two crosses in the background, after Reni (?) 1778

John Keyse Sherwin created this print, "Christ carrying the cross", after Reni, in the late 18th century. Sherwin, who rose from humble beginnings to become engraver to the Prince of Wales, lived in a time of shifting social mobility, yet he died in poverty. This work shows Jesus on his way to Calvary, burdened by the cross. Look at the emotional weight of the scene. Christ's body language conveys exhaustion, while the presence of the two thieves suggests the universality of human suffering. Consider the traditional representations of religious figures and the societal expectations placed upon them. How does Sherwin's portrayal challenge or reinforce these notions? The artist invites us to reflect on themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the human condition within a specific cultural and religious context. The print evokes a sense of empathy, prompting viewers to confront their own beliefs and values.