Christ before Herod 1546 - 1549

Maarten van Heemskerck's "Christ before Herod" (1546-1549) is a detailed pen and ink drawing depicting the biblical story of Jesus' trial before King Herod. This artwork, housed at the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst, showcases Heemskerck's mastery of figural composition, with a focus on the dramatic tension between Jesus and Herod. The work is executed with meticulous detail, highlighting the intricate folds of clothing and the individual expressions of each figure. This drawing is a testament to Heemskerck's ability to translate a complex narrative into a compelling and emotionally charged visual representation.