Christ before Pilate c. 1490 - 1500

This is an anonymous print of ‘Christ before Pilate’. In it we see the artist wrestling with questions of power and justice. Prints like this one, though small, circulated widely, and were often hand-colored, bringing religious narratives into everyday life. Who do you think this print was for? Notice how Christ, in the center, is rendered as almost frail, his hands bound, a stark contrast to the seated Pilate, adorned in rich robes, embodying authority. Consider the historical context: prints like these served not only as devotional aids but also as potent visual tools during periods of religious and social upheaval. The emotional weight of this scene is palpable, inviting viewers to reflect on themes of innocence, sacrifice, and the abuse of power. It challenges us to consider how traditional narratives are used to represent the relationship between the governed and the governors. How do you think such images shaped the cultural identity and moral compass of the time?