Simon the Cyrenian Compelled to Carry the Cross with Jesus (Simon de Cyrène contraint de porter la Croix avec Jésus)

Already weak from beatings and the labor of carrying his heavy cross, Jesus falls for a second time. A man named Simon of Cyrene, a resident of North Africa, is pressed into service to help with the burden. Taking him roughly by the shoulders, the guards urge Simon, clothed in a short blue tunic, to carry the long central beam, as Jesus lies motionless on the cobbled street.

Following the procession, a boy carries the title that will be affixed to the Cross. Spelled out in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin, the sign, written by Pilate, reads: “Jesus of Nazareth, The King of the Jews.”