Gualtherus en Griselda Possibly 1785

Curator: The work before us is entitled "Gualtherus en Griselda," potentially dating back to 1785 and attributed to Francesco Bartolozzi. It's a print, likely an engraving, over a pencil sketch. Editor: I'm struck by how much storytelling is packed into this small oval! It's Romantic, certainly, and theatrical in its gesture. Something significant is about to happen… or already has. A rather tense energy lingers around the whole composition. Curator: It does capture a specific moment. The title alludes to the medieval tale of Griselda, whose legendary patience and obedience were tested by her husband, Walter. This image probably illustrates one of those cruel trials. The style evokes the burgeoning interest in medieval stories that gripped the late 18th century, aligning it with Romantic sensibilities and historicism. Editor: Obedience is not a virtue I value much. But from a purely artistic perspective, it’s beautiful! I see classical grace mixed with earthy tones of pencil and ink. The delicate lines are contrasted with areas of dense crosshatching. Curator: The technique does harken back to Renaissance drawings. Bartolozzi was renowned for his stipple engraving, a method of creating tonal effects through a series of tiny dots. However, this piece shows prominent use of contour lines – something that brings out its narrative qualities. The feathered hat especially draws attention and gives him status and sophistication Editor: He doesn’t look especially kind. I guess those feathers might signify power, not prettiness. Her posture speaks volumes about subservience… Her hands open, waiting or pleading, depending on your point of view! Does this visual vocabulary really mean that woman are naturally disposed to obedience? That is a symbol I reject. Curator: Your point underscores how potent imagery becomes embedded with culturally specific messages and narratives over time. Today, Griselda might strike us as a victim or an unwilling actor. What does remain remarkable, regardless, is Bartolozzi’s ability to infuse this static medium with a dynamism suggesting an entire story within the lines. Editor: Yes! He really pulled that off – it gives us an uneasy beauty… Curator: Indeed, there is enduring visuality as Bartolozzi invites us to find in this print and old myth and still reflect about enduring societal archetypes.