Bewening 1636 - 1680

Cornelis van Caukercken's "Bewening" (1636-1680) is a dramatic black and white etching depicting the Lamentation of Christ. The central figure of Christ is shown in the throes of death, slumped in the arms of a grieving woman, likely his mother Mary. Another figure, perhaps Joseph of Arimathea, is depicted kneeling and supporting Christ's limp body. The artist's meticulous attention to detail and the dramatic use of light and shadow create a powerful sense of emotion and sorrow. The print, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, exemplifies van Caukercken's skill as a draftsman and his ability to capture the emotional intensity of a significant biblical scene.