Christ Presented to the People (Ecce Homo)

Artist: Sodoma – c. 1540 – 1549

Sodoma was trained in Lombardy, where he absorbed Leonardo da Vinci’s ideas about the use of contrasting physiognomies for heightened dramatic effect. Subsequently, he worked in Rome, where the frescoes of Raphael left a deep impression (the two artists painted for the same patron). This late work encapsulates the grandly expressive goals that were so influential on painting throughout Europe. The turbaned figure is Pilate, who presents the resigned but dignified Christ to the viewer as an object of contemplation.