Ecce Homo (Bosch, Indianapolis)

The painting Ecce Homo attributed to Hieronymus Bosch in the collection of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is a representation of the biblical scene of Pontius Pilate presenting a scourged Jesus Christ to the crowd. The Latin phrase Ecce Homo translates to "Behold the Man" or "Here is the Man," the words Pilate speaks in the Gospel of John (19:5).

This version of Ecce Homo, like other depictions of the subject by Bosch, typically features a relatively small composition compared to his larger, more complex works. It depicts Christ wearing a crown of thorns, bearing the marks of his suffering, and surrounded by a hostile and mocking crowd. Pilate is often shown presenting Christ from a balcony or raised platform.

Attribution of this particular Ecce Homo to Bosch himself has been debated by art historians, with some considering it to be a work by his workshop or a follower, rather than a fully autograph piece. The debate centers on the painting's style, execution, and comparison to other accepted works by Bosch. Factors considered include the level of detail, the characteristics of the figures' faces, the use of color, and the overall composition. The Indianapolis Museum of Art attributes the painting to Bosch.

The significance of the painting lies in its representation of a pivotal moment in the Passion of Christ, capturing themes of human cruelty, injustice, and spiritual suffering. It also allows for study of Bosch's artistic style and the visual interpretation of biblical narratives during the late medieval period. The painting is a notable example of the Northern Renaissance art and is part of the Newfields permanent collection.