The Flagellation of Christ, from "The Passion of Christ" 1610 - 1700

Nicolas Cochin’s “The Flagellation of Christ,” rendered in ink on paper, captures a brutal scene through the meticulous process of engraving. The stark contrast of the black ink against the white paper heightens the drama, each line carefully etched to define form and texture, from the smooth skin of Christ to the rough texture of the stone pillar. Engraving, a laborious process, mirrors the toils and tribulations of the biblical narrative. The artist's hand guides the burin, meticulously cutting lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed, leaving impressions on paper. The act of engraving itself becomes a metaphor for the physical and emotional toll depicted in the artwork. The medium and making of the artwork add layers of meaning, emphasizing not only the visual representation but also the tactile experience. The print invites contemplation on the convergence of art, craft, and the enduring power of human expression.