Brulement de l´effigie du Juda le Samedi Saint

Before you is "Brulement de l'effigie du Juda le Samedi Saint," a lithograph print created in 1839 by the renowned artist Jean-Baptiste Debret. This piece, part of the museum's collection, measures 32.4 centimeters wide and 47.4 centimeters high. The print masterfully captures a scene from a Brazilian Holy Week procession, specifically the burning of the effigy of Judas. nn The artwork is divided into two sections. The upper portion presents a vibrant street scene, bustling with a crowd of people—mostly dark-skinned individuals dressed in period clothing—gathered around a figure suspended from a tree, likely representing Judas. A church is visible in the background, firmly establishing the religious context. The artist uses subtle shading in grayscale to create depth and contrast within this lively scene. nn The lower section provides a closer, more detailed view of the effigy burning itself. Two smaller depictions of this act are included, one seemingly a more detailed rendering of the upper scene. The figures are stylized, yet the artist's skill in capturing the details of clothing and expressions is evident. The overall tone is somber, reflecting the solemnity of the religious event. The use of light and shadow here is more pronounced, drawing the viewer's eye to the central act of burning. nn The composition's clear division creates a narrative flow, guiding the viewer's eye through the scene. Debret's realistic style effectively conveys the atmosphere of the event, and the central motif—the burning of the effigy—serves as a powerful symbol within the context of Holy Week. The artwork invites contemplation on themes of religious ritual, community participation, and perhaps even social commentary on the cultural practices of 19th-century Brazil.