A simple way around this, just rename the man on the cross SPARTACUS! Of course you will really know who it represents.:-D
Albrech Durer did a woodcut of “The Young Christ”. It was actually a self potrait of Durer so if anyone hollers just say it it actually Durer.
There are lots of paintings that used real people for models for Christ paintings.
If you have a painting of Christ in a robe by the sea, when someone throws a fit say it is just a portrait of Joe Smith in a robe by the sea. But you really know who it represents.
But then there is this, Christ took on our sins on the Cross, so you might say that the man on the cross actually represents you and me!
There are lots of paintings that used real people for models for Christ paintings.
If you have a painting of Christ in a robe by the sea, when someone throws a fit say it is just a portrait of Joe Smith in a robe by the sea. But you really know who it represents.
But then there is this, Christ took on our sins on the Cross, so you might say that the man on the cross actually represents you and me!
Very interesting. And your last point is very well taken. Take up your cross and follow me...