The artwork “Christ Carrying the Cross” is a pen sketch by Hieronymus Bosch, a notable figure from the Northern Renaissance art movement. This piece belongs to the genre of sketches and studies and is part of the collection at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
In this artwork, we can observe a dramatic and chaotic scene depicting Jesus Christ, burdened by the weight of the Cross, as He makes His way to Golgotha. Bosch captures the intensity of the moment through dynamic lines and the interplay of figures crowded around Christ. Surrounding Him are several figures, some of whom appear to be soldiers and bystanders. The urgency and cruelty of the event are emphasized by the drawing’s rough and sketchy execution, typical for a study that might be a preparatory work for a more finished painting. Bosch’s use of pen allows for a great deal of expressive detail, even in the absence of color, highlighting his mastery of drawing to convey complex narratives.