The Flagellation

About this work

This sketch shows a group of men in a dim, stone-walled room. One man is being beaten by another who holds a whip, while others watch or react—some look away, others stand stiffly. The lighting is uneven, with shadows clinging to faces and clothing, and the walls have rough, unfinished arches. The artist used quick, sketchy lines to show movement and emotion, leaving some areas faint. The faded blue paper underneath peeks through in spots, adding a ghostly effect. Look up gouache to see how this white paint was used to brighten the figures.