07 The Mocking of Christ Fra Angelico (1400-1455)

The composition presents a central figure seated upon a throne, framed within a shallow architectural niche. The individual on the throne is depicted with hands raised in what appears to be a gesture of blessing or perhaps resignation, encircled by a radiant halo. A youthful man, wearing a distinctive hat, stands adjacent to the enthroned figure, his face close and seemingly engaged in an act of mockery or derision. He holds something near his nose, possibly a cloth or rag, suggesting a contemptuous interaction.
Two female figures are positioned at the base of the scene, seated on the ground. The woman on the left is draped in pinkish-purple robes, her head bowed and her expression conveying sorrow or grief. She clasps her hands together in a gesture of supplication or mourning. To her right sits another woman, clad in blue garments, who appears to be holding a book or tablet, possibly engaged in prayer or study. Both women are also encircled by halos, indicating their sanctity.
The color palette is restrained and dominated by pale tones – whites, pinks, blues, and greens – which contribute to the overall sense of solemnity and quiet contemplation. The architectural niche creates a spatial depth, while the figures themselves appear somewhat flattened, characteristic of the artistic conventions of the period.
Subtly, the arrangement suggests a narrative of suffering and compassion. The central figure’s posture implies endurance in the face of humiliation, while the mocking gesture of the man beside him highlights the cruelty of the situation. The two women at the base represent empathy and spiritual solace – one expressing grief, the other seeking understanding through study or prayer. The halos surrounding all three figures elevate the scene beyond a simple depiction of an event, suggesting a deeper theological significance related to sacrifice, redemption, and divine grace.