The Crowning with Thorns

In order to inflict pain on Jesus while he is on his way to the Cross, a crown made of thorns is put on his head. It was also meant as a way to mock him: in stead of a real crown the King of the Jews is given this thorny one.

The torturers use sticks to apply the crown. Jesus endures the pain with patience. A man in armour observes the torture; his position is that of boredom.

The canvas was probably commissioned by the Roman banker and art collector Vincenzo Giustiniani.