Christ before the High Council 1913

Wilhelm Morgner's woodcut "Christ before the High Council" (1913) is a stark and powerful depiction of a biblical scene. The simplified forms and bold outlines characteristic of Expressionism convey the drama and tension of the moment. The figures are tightly packed, with Christ at the center, appearing almost swallowed by the surrounding crowd. The heavy black lines against a light background create a strong sense of claustrophobia, emphasizing the weight of the accusations and the impending judgment. The woodcut is a testament to the expressive power of this style and its ability to translate complex emotions and themes into a visual form.