Graflegging 1645

Hendrik van der Borcht the Younger created this print, Graflegging, around 1645. The composition unfolds through delicate lines that articulate a scene of mourning. The figures are arranged in a semi-circle around the body of Christ, creating a somber, reflective mood. Van der Borcht uses line to convey depth, emotion and texture. The cross-hatching technique builds shadows and models the forms, giving weight to the sorrow felt by the figures. The use of monochromatic tones focuses our attention on the emotional narrative and stark reality, avoiding the distraction of color. The work reflects broader artistic concerns of the period around representation and emotion, engaging with the viewer on a spiritual level. The artist’s technique emphasizes a formal quality: the stark contrasts between light and shadow, and the emotional power of the scene, prompting ongoing dialogue and interpretation.