Roots The scene with Veronica is not of biblical origin, but there is a long tradition based on Scripture asking God to show us his face: Thou hast said, "Seek ye my face." My heart says to thee, "Thy face, Lord, do I seek." Psalm 27:8
Representation The weeping Veronica is holding an oversized linen, wide enough to cover the dolors of creation. But no face is visible, neither that of the Ecce Homo nor the flayed face of humanity. Instead, the shroud bears the marks of a giant crown of thorns. Whose crown is this?
Identification Is this shroud an urgent invitation to take up my crown of thorns? Is it a veiled accusation about suffering caused to my neighbor? The little figure in the margin, hiding its face and wearing a dunce cap or magic hood, is like my silly alter ego contemplating flight.
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