Christus valt tijdens de kruisdraging 1629 - 1740

Christoffel van Sichem II created this woodcut, "Christus valt tijdens de kruisdraging", sometime between the late 16th and mid-17th century. During this period, the Dutch Republic was undergoing significant religious and political upheaval as it fought for independence from Spanish rule. This image depicts Christ's journey to his crucifixion, a potent symbol of suffering and sacrifice. Sichem's choice to portray this moment speaks to the era's preoccupation with themes of hardship, redemption, and divine purpose. Notice the figures surrounding Christ. Are they offering help or are they antagonizing him further? How does this reflect the complicated role of faith during this period? Crucially, this work invites us to consider the emotional weight of bearing burdens, both literal and metaphorical, and calls for a deeper reflection on the intersections of faith, resilience, and human experience. Sichem evokes the deeply personal and universally resonant themes of pain, empathy, and endurance.