Geseling van Christus 1625 - 1670

Mattheus Borrekens created this engraving, titled ‘Geseling van Christus’, sometime in the 17th century. During the Baroque era, religious artworks often served as potent tools for emotional and spiritual engagement, aiming to evoke a strong sense of piety and repentance in viewers. This piece depicts the flagellation of Christ, a scene laden with symbolism and historical context. The graphic depiction of Christ's suffering invites us to confront themes of sacrifice, injustice, and redemption. Borrekens masterfully uses light and shadow to draw the viewer's eye to Christ's tormented figure, while the onlookers display a range of emotions from indifference to sadistic glee. This is a reminder of the complex power dynamics at play within the religious and social structures of the time. As we reflect on this image, we can consider how representations of suffering and persecution have been used throughout history to shape societal values and moral frameworks. Borrekens' work thus becomes a mirror reflecting the enduring human capacity for both cruelty and compassion.