Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn
(Netherlands 1606–1669)
Christ presented to the people
- Location
- Not on display
- Further information
On a raised balcony in a small courtyard, Pontius Pilate asks the people whether he should release Barabbas or Christ, whose arms are bound. On the left of the platform stands a boy holding a jug of water and a bowl in which Pilate will soon wash his hands of the affair. Below the podium the figures, egged on by the priests and elders shout that Jesus should be crucified while onlookers crowd every window and doorway. The statues of Justice and Fortitude above the central doorway are of the type that would have been found on Dutch civic buildings and courts, such as the recently completed New Town Hall in Amsterdam.
- Year
- 1655
- Media
- Medium
- drypoint
- Dimensions
- 35.5 x 45.0cm platemark; 36.5 x 45.8cm sheet
- Signature & date
- Not signed. Not dated.
- Credit
- Purchased 1948
- Accession number
- 8130
