Appointing of the apostles 

Curator: Right, let's consider this intriguing drawing. It’s called “Appointing of the Apostles," attributed to François Verdier and part of the Städel Museum's collection. Notice that it is a drawing. Red chalk, isn’t it delicious? Editor: My first impression? A powder keg of emotions! So many bodies twisted with supplication and awe. The medium softens what could be a really austere biblical scene. It's all very warm and... human. Curator: I agree entirely. The red chalk definitely adds to the passion in the figures, making a bold but not loud statement. It gives this the feeling of movement despite being so old. What draws me is how Verdier uses symbolism and imagery. Think about the rock. A recurrent and ancient signifier for foundational support and steadfastness, linking it so strongly to St. Peter and leadership, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: Absolutely. The rock as a symbol... grounding, the bedrock of faith itself. And consider the composition. Verdier deliberately stages these apostles ascending to join the others in a hierarchical structure. But more than hierarchy, I see ambition. The way some figures strain to look upwards feels deeply relatable. Curator: I love that you notice the straining – physically and metaphorically. But that leads me back to my thoughts around iconography. The raised hands. Aren’t they referencing a longer tradition, going all the way back to ancient depictions of prayer? Verdier seems to tap into something timeless in humanity’s need for a connection to something larger than itself. Editor: Yes, those upraised hands! It echoes through centuries of art. They also speak of vulnerability; an admittance of need and that deep desire to connect with something otherworldly, maybe. That feeling of supplication is visceral here. This work somehow blends the grand, historical narrative with very intimate moments of faith. Curator: Intimate and immediate! Ultimately it brings history and a key story from the New Testament closer to home in the simplest and best of ways. Editor: Beautifully put. Looking again, I find myself moved anew by its raw emotion and evocative power. This little chalk drawing speaks volumes about power, belief, and, maybe, about us all.