The Flagellation of Christ c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have Albrecht Altdorfer's "The Flagellation of Christ," a woodcut that, despite its small scale, manages to convey a scene of immense suffering. Editor: It's remarkably stark. The oppressive darkness created by the dense lines really amplifies the violence of the scene. You can almost feel the cold stone and the rough texture of the implements. Curator: Indeed. Altdorfer's mastery lies in his use of line to create texture and depth, guiding the viewer's eye through the composition. Note how the lines converge toward the figure of Christ, emphasizing his isolation. Editor: I'm also struck by how the woodcut process itself – the carving, the pressure, the ink – mirrors the physical torment depicted. The labor involved in creating this image speaks to a devotion, a kind of penance through making. Curator: A compelling interpretation. The composition invites contemplation on the theological and philosophical implications, focusing on the suffering and sacrifice inherent in the narrative. Editor: For me, it's a potent reminder of the labor that goes into creating even the smallest of images, and how that labor can itself become a form of expression. Curator: A fascinating perspective that sheds new light on Altdorfer's print.