Christ Presented to the People (Il Sodoma)

Christ Presented to the People is a fresco painting by Italian Renaissance artist Il Sodoma (Giovanni Antonio Bazzi). It is part of a series depicting the Passion of Christ located in the Chapel of the Palazzo Pubblico in Siena, Italy. The fresco depicts the biblical scene of Pontius Pilate presenting Jesus to the crowd before his crucifixion, often referred to as "Ecce Homo" (Latin for "Behold the Man").

The work is characterized by Sodoma's typical style, which blends elements of High Renaissance classicism with a more expressive and emotional approach. The composition features a central Christ figure, often shown with a crown of thorns and signs of physical abuse, presented to a diverse crowd. The figures in the crowd are rendered with varying expressions, showcasing a range of reactions from sympathy to hostility. Pilate is generally depicted gesturing towards Christ, either physically or through his gaze, emphasizing the decision he is forcing upon the onlookers.

The fresco is significant for its artistic merit and its contribution to the narrative cycle within the Palazzo Pubblico. It showcases Sodoma's skill in portraying human emotion and narrative storytelling through painting. The work forms an integral part of the artistic heritage of Siena and continues to be a subject of study for art historians and enthusiasts.