Christ Before Pilate, from "The Passion of Christ" 1596

Hendrick Goltzius created this print, Christ Before Pilate, as part of his "The Passion of Christ" series in the late 16th century. Goltzius, working in the Netherlands, was a master of engraving, and this piece exemplifies his technical skill and the influence of the Italian Renaissance on Northern European art. The scene depicts the biblical moment when Pontius Pilate presents Jesus to the crowd. The architecture, dress, and even the physiognomy of the figures are rendered with a keen eye to detail. The artist subtly critiques the abuse of power. Pilate is portrayed as indifferent, almost bored, while Christ stands passively awaiting judgment. To fully understand the print's meaning, one might consider how the Passion story was used in religious and political debates of the time. Art historians study such works in relation to the history of printmaking, religious institutions, and contemporary social attitudes toward justice and authority.