Christ before Pilate
1513
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1513
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Christ before Pilate is a 1513 ink by Albrecht Altdorfer, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This black-and-white print shows a tense scene with five robed figures. One kneels, holding a staff, while another stands nearby with a crown of thorns. The others cluster around them, some pointing or gesturing sharply. In the background, a building with a steep roof and a flagpole stands out. Notice the crown of thorns on the kneeling figure—it’s a key detail in this story. The artist used sharp lines and shadows to make the scene feel dramatic. Next, check out how this work was made: technique: woodcut.
