The Seven Deadly Sins and the Four Last Things – The Last Judgment (workshop or follower) Hieronymus Bosch (1450-1516)

This image depicts the Last Judgment, a central theme in Christian eschatology. At the apex of the circular composition sits Jesus Christ, robed in red, with his wounds visible, signifying his sacrifice. He presides over the scene with an open-handed gesture, indicating judgment. Flanking him are two angels blowing trumpets, a signal for the resurrection of the dead.
On Jesuss left (our right), a group of men, possibly apostles or saints, are gathered, looking towards Christ. On his right (our left), another group of figures, predominantly women dressed in modest attire, are also looking towards him.
Below this heavenly court, four angels descend, two blowing trumpets and one holding a sword, further emphasizing the judgment. Below them, the earth is a chaotic scene of naked souls, some in agony, being dragged down into infernal pits by demons. These souls are depicted in various states of torment, representing the consequences of sin.
A prominent detail at the bottom of the image is a group of figures being tormented by devils, some being crushed under wooden planks, while others are submerged in dark earth. The presence of a banner with a symbolic image of a figure in chains being judged suggests a formal process of damnation.
The subtexts of this painting revolve around themes of divine justice, salvation, and damnation. It serves as a visual sermon, reminding viewers of the ultimate consequences of their actions on Earth. The contrast between the heavenly figures basking in divine light and the souls suffering in the darkness below highlights the stark divide between the righteous and the damned. The depiction of naked souls signifies their vulnerability and the stripping away of worldly possessions and status in the face of divine judgment. The entire scene underscores the Christian belief in an afterlife where all souls will be judged according to their earthly deeds.