Rūpintojėlis (The Pensive Christ)

Linoleum block print

7.5”x11.5”

2021

Rūpintojėlis (pronounced roo-pinto-YAY-lis) is known in Lithuania and Eastern Europe as “The Pensive Christ.” It is an image of Christ sitting, bent over, with his head supported by one hand while the other rests on his knee. Sometimes he wears a crown of thorns and always has an expression of exhaustion and grief. This figure first appeared in the 14th Century and became an important figure in folk art wood carvings. Lithuanian Christians believe it shows how Christ was human and shared our feelings and concerns. In it they see God's endless love and compassion for his people.

My grandparents were Lithuanian immigrants and I never had the chance to know them. The Rūpintojėlis links me to them and their faith.

For this print I added a background with strong lines and implied texture that reflect the tradition of Lithuanian textiles and patterns. It also shows that this image of Christ is not static—the impact goes beyond the figure.