Christ Before Pilate, from "The Passion of Christ" 1610 - 1700

Nicolas Cochin etched this print depicting "Christ Before Pilate" in the 17th century. Note the prominent display of power through architectural and symbolic elements: Pilate sits elevated on an elaborate throne, a visual cue to his authority. Consider how the motif of the "throne" resonates through history, from ancient Near Eastern potentates to the Roman emperors, each imparting a sense of divine right and power. Yet, this image subverts the trope. Pilate appears almost weary, while Christ stands humbly before him. This juxtaposition elicits a psychological tension, challenging the viewer to question the nature of true authority. The throne as a seat of power has taken on diverse forms across cultures, yet its underlying message remains: it is a stage upon which dramas of power, justice, and fate are enacted. The symbolic weight of this motif persists, evolving through history and engaging us on a subconscious level, prompting contemplation on the human condition and the timeless dance between power and morality.