The Flagellation

The Flagellation

Jacques Callot

1624

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This scene shows a group of robed figures inside a dark, curtained space. One person is being whipped by another, while others stand around with sticks or weapons. The lighting comes from a small window, casting harsh shadows. The walls and floor are made of rough stone blocks, and the figures’ faces are blurred or turned away. The artist used sharp lines to show movement and tension. The rough texture of the paper and the way the light cuts through the scene make it feel dramatic. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.

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