Station of the Cross No. 2: "The Cross is Laid on Jesus" c. 1936

"The Cross is Laid on Jesus" (c. 1936) is a watercolor painting by William Herbert, depicting the second station of the cross. This piece is a part of a larger series, the Stations of the Cross, that portrays the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. In this painting, a group of Roman soldiers force Jesus to carry the heavy cross, conveying the physical and emotional torment he endures. The painting's simple yet expressive style, characterized by bold colors and simplified figures, reflects Herbert's unique artistic vision. The scene is set against a muted background, emphasizing the central figures and highlighting the weight of their journey.