E27 – Cleaning of a leper

“A man with leprosy came to him and begged him on his knees, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” Jesus was indignant. He reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cleansed.” (Mark I, 40 – 42)

What is striking in this engraving is that the only thing white and shiny is the body of the former leper. Jesus takes the position of the leprosy that comes out. His hand is black because at the touch the leprosy, uncleanness, and sin fall upon him. This also explains Jesus’ remarkable weariness. There is clearly panic among the bystanders, with the exception of the child closest to Jesus. The apostles watch from a distance and a mother calls out to her son not to come any closer. In this engraving you see again that mysterious figure (left) who seems to understand everything.

This work was made in Cocaraya (Bolivia) between the 3th and 29th of June 1935.