Saint Augustine c. 1585

Curator: This is Anton Wierix II's depiction of Saint Augustine. The dimensions of the sheet are roughly 27 by 36 cm. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: The cherubic figure, the books, the bishop's finery—it's all quite deliberately staged with symbols of authority and wisdom, a very powerful iconography. Curator: Absolutely, this piece reflects the historical context of religious authority. Augustine's own writings have been used to justify power structures for centuries. Editor: And the books themselves, they act as symbols of codified knowledge, instruments to interpret the world. Curator: It's interesting how Wierix positions Augustine within this visual language, reinforcing his influence and legacy. Editor: Indeed, it all speaks volumes about the cultural memory surrounding Augustine. Curator: A very interesting work with layers of meaning. Editor: Definitely a lot to reflect upon!