Christus bezwijkt onder het gewicht van het kruis 16th century

This engraving by Antonio di Alessio depicts Christ succumbing to the weight of the cross. The image is dominated by the cross itself, a symbol of immense historical weight. Originally a Roman instrument of execution, it has been transformed into the ultimate emblem of sacrifice and redemption. The figure of Christ, kneeling under its crushing burden, embodies human suffering. Consider how the motif of the 'falling man'—present here—recurs throughout art history. Think of Icarus plummeting from the sky, an image of hubris, or the countless depictions of defeated warriors. The bent knee and strained posture communicate not just physical collapse, but also psychological anguish. This resonates deeply within our collective memory, tapping into primal fears of failure. As you contemplate this scene, consider the non-linear journey of these symbols. They evolve through art and culture, taking on new layers of meaning, continuously reshaped by human experience.