The Bearing of the Cross

About this work

This black-and-white print is packed with people and action. In the center, a group struggles with a large wooden cross, while others watch or help. On the left, a crowd carries torches and tools, and on the right, riders on horseback lead more figures toward a distant town with towers and domes. The background has jagged mountains and a rocky path, with tiny figures climbing or fleeing. Notice how the artist uses sharp lines to show every muscle and fold of cloth—even the horses’ reins are detailed. This isn’t just a scene; it’s a story packed into one image, with every person and object playing a part. If you like this style, look up etching to see how artists carve images into metal plates.