Geseling van Christus 1625 - 1670

Editor: This is *Geseling van Christus*, or "The Flagellation of Christ", a print made sometime between 1625 and 1670, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. It's attributed to Mattheus Borrekens. I am immediately struck by the stark contrast in textures, from the fur hat to the smooth skin. How do you interpret this work, especially in the context of its time? Curator: Ah, a fine pick. Borrekens... a fascinating artist. I think the immediate grab is the duality, yes? Good versus evil. Flesh versus fur. It's baroque, naturally, revelling in drama and dynamism, almost theatrical! It aims to strike the beholder, not merely present an image. Note the man, in a lavish oriental fur hat, presiding callously over a cruel ritual. It makes one wonder, who wields true authority, God or those cloaked in earthly grandeur? What do *you* think about Borreken's use of light and shadow? Editor: The deep shadows really emphasize the figures’ emotional weight, like the jailer has a disturbing lack of empathy. Curator: Precisely! Baroque art wasn't about delicate suggestion; it wanted a full-throated roar! A whip to your soul! Borrekens has a remarkable ability here of contrasting the brutal violence and inherent injustice. Editor: I didn’t initially notice the detail in the architectural elements behind the figures. It’s incredibly rendered. Curator: I love that! Isn’t it strange how an artist can transport us across centuries? Editor: Definitely. It has deepened my understanding, and appreciation, of baroque sensibilities. Thanks! Curator: It's all about the textures, isn't it? We just need to pay attention!