Pilatus wast zijn handen 1548

"Pilatus wast zijn handen," an etching created by Dirck Volckertsz Coornhert in 1548, depicts the biblical scene of Pontius Pilate washing his hands of Jesus Christ's fate. This intricate artwork, now located at the Rijksmuseum, highlights the dramatic moment where Pilate symbolically absolves himself of responsibility for Jesus's crucifixion. The composition is striking, featuring a detailed portrayal of the figures, including Pilate, Jesus, and the soldiers, creating a sense of tension and historical significance. This engraving exemplifies Coornhert's mastery of the medium, contributing to his reputation as a prominent artist of the Dutch Renaissance.