Martin Engelbrecht [Augsburg] (1684-1756)

Martin Engelbrecht [Augsburg] (1684-1756)
'FLAGELLATION OF JESUS CHRIST' c.1750
A fine series depicting the Biblical scene of Flagellation of Jesus by order of Pontius Pilate. A set of 6 copper engraved card-backed, cut away sheets combining to create an early peep show, together with a frontispiece displaying the whole scene [105×142 mm] with original hand-colouring. The serie includes also a sheet depicting the entire scene.

The cut aways depict; [1] the scene is set with classical architecture, two pillars on both sides. The two figures on the left, a soldier and possibly Pontius Pilate, introduce the viewer to the main scene. Another soldier's back is depicted on the right side; [2] in the centre between two arches, Jesus Christ is surrounded by his torturers, and one of them is placing the crown of thorns on his head; [3] Classical architecture with three arches on classical pillars, and two soldiers on the right side; [4] on both sides the external walls of the architecture. On the left side, a soldier and another figure, possibly the disciple Peter, with his typical yellow and blue vest; [5] a circular architecture with arcades opens the view on the last sheet. Three soldiers stand near the central pillars; [6] a classical architectural ruin, with small towers at the corners and a central opening onto the landscape in the distance.