Se flageller dans la Flagellation. Enjeux et modalités de la représentation des flagellants dans leurs images de dévotion

Abstract

Beginning in the 13th century, flagellant confraternities spread throughout Western Europe, especially in Italy. In order to support their devotional practices, based on self-discipline, these brotherhoods acquire a large variety of images wherein Flagellation of Christ figures prominently. This paper examines the constitution of a network of images of Flagellation, in a variety of formats and roles, which is essential for the identity and the devotional practices of theses institutions (processional banners, seals, illuminations, altarpieces). In a number of these images, flagellants are represented whipping themselves. This paper seeks to highlight the agency of the image in the context of devotional practice, through the study of the mimetic and specular relationship between flagellants and Christ wounded by the executioners.

Keywords

• devotion
• Aelred de Rievaulx
• confraternities
• flagellants
• Flagellation of Christ
• imitatio Christi