Allegory of Hope, with Judas Iscariot c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have an engraving called "Allegory of Hope, with Judas Iscariot" by an anonymous artist. The stark contrast and the setting give it such a dramatic feel. What do you make of the pairing of hope and Judas in the same scene? Curator: It’s an odd pairing, isn’t it? I see it as an exploration of redemption. The figure of Hope, with her anchor, offers salvation even to Judas, who’s consumed by despair. It is a reminder that grace extends even to those we deem unworthy. Editor: So, it's not necessarily about earthly hope, but something more spiritual? Curator: Precisely. The artist may be suggesting hope is divine forgiveness. It is a powerful statement about the boundless nature of hope. Thank you for pointing that out. Editor: Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It gives me a lot to think about.