“The Release of Barabbas” by George Tinworth

In the 1870s a British artist named George Tinworth produced a terra cotta rendering of the moment when Pilate releases Barabbas and orders Jesus sent off to be crucified. The differences between Jesus and Barabbas are quite pronounced. Though it is hard to see clearly in this picture, Tinworth inscribed the words “The World’s Choice” under Barabbas and “The Good Shepherd” under Jesus.

Tinworth wants us to know that the world takes care of its own. Even the soldiers prefer Barabbas to Jesus.