Apostelen Judas Ischariot 1609 - 1670

Karel van Mander III created this ink drawing of Judas Iscariot sometime in the 17th century. Here, Judas is depicted with his hands clasped to his head, a universal gesture of anguish and despair. This motif of gripping one’s head appears across cultures and epochs. From ancient depictions of mourning figures to modern expressions of stress, it signifies an overwhelming emotional burden. Think of the Furies in classical mythology, often shown with disheveled hair and frantic gestures, embodying guilt and torment. This iconography taps into a collective memory of suffering, resonating deeply with viewers. The portrayal of Judas in such distress reflects a psychological complexity, as the weight of his betrayal leads to a profound inner turmoil. This image, charged with pathos, serves as a potent reminder of the human capacity for both treachery and remorse, illustrating the cyclical progression of guilt and repentance across time.