The artwork, titled “Pilate Washes His Hands,” created by the artist Duccio between 1308 and 1311, is a religious painting from the Proto Renaissance period. The medium used is tempera on wood, and the painting is part of the Maestà series. The dimensions of the artwork are 51 by 53.5 centimeters.
“Pilate Washes His Hands” depicts a solemn scene from the Passion of Christ, focusing on a moment of profound significance. Pontius Pilate, surrounded by onlookers and Roman soldiers, is at the center of the artwork, ostensibly washing his hands as a gesture refusing responsibility for Christ’s fate. The painting showcases meticulous attention to detail, vibrant use of color, and expressive faces, emphasizing the tension and moral complexities of the scene. Duccio’s use of tempera on wood results in a luminous effect, bringing depth to the figures’ emotions and the overall narrative. The composition reflects early Renaissance exploration of human expressions and spatial arrangements, contributing to the religious and dramatic impact of the piece.
