Cure of a blind 

Pellegrino Aretusi’s drawing, "Cure of a Blind Man," now held at the Städel Museum, depicts a scene of miraculous healing. Likely made in Bologna during the late 15th or early 16th century, it reflects the prevalent religious fervor of the time, where divine intervention was a common theme in art and life. Consider the social role of religious institutions in Renaissance Italy. The Church was not just a spiritual guide, but a major political and economic power, influencing daily life and artistic patronage. Drawings like these served as visual tools for religious education, reinforcing the Church's authority through depictions of divine power and miracle. To fully appreciate this drawing, we might examine theological texts, historical records of religious practices, and other contemporary art. Art history is not just about aesthetics; it is about understanding the complex interplay between art, belief, and power.