Monday, April 18, 2011

An Image for Holy Week

Agnus Dei, by Francisco de Zurbaran, 17th Century
   I can't get this one out of my head this year.  Having returned from a trip where we saw lots of baby lambs in the fields, this picture stands out and haunts.  
   We have a print of this painting, purchased by Barry at a recent church fundraiser.  The detail is striking but the pose even more so.
   The lamb's feet are tied but its body shows no struggle.  There seems to be a look of sleepy resignation on its face.  It seems to know what lies ahead and to be ok with that.
   It seems to me to be a brilliant statement of Christology, Jesus the humble lamb, ready for slaughter, accepting it, and at peace.  So much seems at odds with modern sensibilities here.  So much paradox in this figure.  So much paradox in faith.