Flagelation c. 17th century

Curator: This is Jacques Callot's etching, "Flagellation," currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Even at this miniature scale, the composition is strikingly brutal. The use of line conveys a raw sense of violence. Curator: Callot created this scene within a larger series depicting the Passion of Christ. It reflects the religious and political climate of 17th-century Europe, rife with conflict. Editor: The artist's technical skill is evident in the way he uses the etching needle to create depth and texture, a stark visual contrast to the brutality. Curator: Absolutely. Callot's work often served as a commentary on the human condition, exploring the darker aspects of society through a religious lens. Editor: Ultimately, Callot's effective use of line and form amplifies the emotional depth, encouraging a visceral connection with its themes of suffering and violence.