Spanish school; early 17th century.

Spanish school of the early 17th century.
"Christ on the way to Calvary".
Oil on canvas. Re-drawn.
It presents faults on the pictorial surface and unstretched canvas.
Measurements: 168 x 251 cm; 188 x 270 cm (frame).
The fall of Jesus is represented here on the way to the Calvary mount, overcome by the weight of the cross, and in the scene we also see Simon the Cyrenean, who helps him to carry the cross again. Alongside the figure of Christ, the presence of his mother The Virgin stands out, whose figure is illuminated with greater splendour than the rest of the figures in the scene. This is largely due to the pictorial treatment of the mantle which, with its indigo blue tonality, manages to temper the intensity of the ochre and dark tones that dominate the scene.
Exhausted by the blood lost in the scourging, weakened by the physical and moral suffering inflicted on him the night before, and without having slept, Jesus could barely take a few steps and soon fell under the weight of the cross. Then followed the blows and imprecations of the soldiers, the expectant laughter of the crowd. The Messiah, with all the strength of his will and with all his might, managed to get up and continue on his way. According to theological interpretations, Jesus invites us by his actions to carry our cross and to follow him, he teaches us here that we too can fall, and that we must understand those who fall; that none of us must remain prostrate, we must all get up with humility and trust, seeking his help and forgiveness.