Ecce Homo

Marjorie Love Sutton

"Ecco homo" - or, "behold the man" - were the Latin words spoken by Pontius Pilate when he presented Jesus to the hostile mob just prior to ordering his crucifixion, according to the Gospel of John. The term has been used throughout Christian art history to illustrate this scene in the cycle of the Passion of the Christ, often highlighting his crown of thorns.

Sutton explores this religious theme through the lens of Abstract Expressionism, simplifying Christ's facial features with the use of aquatint and muted washes of colors - save for the crown, which vividly stands out from the composition. In most historical depictions of this scene, prior to the mid 20th century, Jesus is calm, with his glance cast downward toward his accusers surrounding him; or, if he is alone, his expression is one of grief or contemplation. This image departs somewhat from this traditional imagery: fear, longing, and resignation could also be interpreted from his expression, lending a depth not normally touched upon by religious artists.