Ecce Homo
1480
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1480
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This engraving shows a group of people in a busy, crowded scene. In the center, a man with a long beard and robe holds up another man who looks tired and weak. Around them, others point, laugh, or watch—some wear hats, others armor. A small child sits on the ground, holding grapes, while a monkey peeks out from a doorway. The buildings behind them have arched windows and doors, and the whole scene feels packed with movement. The man in the robe is likely meant to be Jesus, shown after being beaten. The artist used sharp lines and shading to make the figures stand out against the brick walls. Try looking up engraving to see how artists like this one carved detailed images into metal.