Temptation of St. Anthony, outer wings of the triptych – Carrying the cross Hieronymus Bosch (1450-1516)

The painting depicts a scene of Christ carrying the cross, set within the broader context of a triptych and possibly relating to the temptations of St. Anthony.
In the upper section, Christ is shown struggling under the weight of the cross, surrounded by a crowd of figures. Soldiers with spears and pikes push and prod him. Two figures, one appearing as a follower and another as a tormentor, are close to Christ. Veronica, identifiable by her veil, is also present, reaching out to wipe Christs face. The background features a rocky hill with a single tree and a distant cityscape with a tall tower, suggesting a journey through a desolate and populated landscape.
The middle ground shows a more sparse and surreal landscape. On the right, a stoic pilgrim, likely St. Anthony in his spiritual journey, is seen addressing a figure who appears to be offering him something. Further to the left, a man in a nuns habit leans over another figure, holding a rosary and possibly offering comfort or a temptation.
The lower section of the painting is even more desolate and filled with symbolic imagery. Two figures are seated on a ledge; one, a monk, embraces another who is wounded and shackled. A guard stands over them, holding a chain. To the right, a stark, skeletal figure lies on the ground, seemingly suffering or dead, amidst scattered objects like a broken tool and a shoe. This scene evokes themes of suffering, damnation, and the harsh realities of the world.
The subtext of the painting appears to explore the themes of suffering, faith, and temptation. The central image of Christs passion is juxtaposed with scenes that could be interpreted as temptations or trials faced by individuals on their spiritual path, with St. Anthonys spiritual struggle being a prominent reference point. The stark, monochromatic palette and the grotesque or distorted figures in the lower sections contribute to a sense of dread and spiritual turmoil, highlighting the contrast between divine suffering and human weakness or sin. The overall impression is one of a profound meditation on the burdens of life, the nature of sin, and the path to salvation.