H. Johannes 1608 - 1649

Curator: Here we have "H. Johannes", an engraving dating from the period of 1608 to 1649, made by Claude Mellan. Editor: The first thing that strikes me is its ethereal, almost ghostly quality. The precision is intense and the lines are so thin and so clear. It gives him an airy presence, almost hovering. What exactly does he hold in his hand? Curator: He's depicted holding a chalice and a quill. As this work is entitled “H. Johannes,” one may recognize Saint John. Editor: The background’s really interesting, isn't it? Like, this beautiful, serene saint with chaos erupting behind him? What's going on there? Curator: The backdrop portrays two contrasting scenes related to Saint John’s life. On the left, the martyrdom of the saint’s entourage can be discerned. This offers insight into the turmoil and adversity faced by Saint John and his followers. Then we see the second scene on the right with fire. It portrays the symbolic element of purification. The combination provides context to Saint John’s existence and the tribulations during his journey of faith. Editor: Wow, so it's like a mini-narrative woven into the background? And I find myself thinking about that halo. It's not just a solid circle; it’s created with fine lines. I feel like the closer you get to something holy, the harder it is to define, and the more it almost vanishes into thin air. The more something inspires me and excites me, the harder it is to contain it in a little sentence. Curator: Precisely! Mellan uses the engraving medium to explore these nuances of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and spirituality with minimal lines. Editor: This makes you wonder about the kind of patience that someone must have possessed to just be this precise and have these ideas. When you think of printmaking you think of a sort of industrial process. I suppose this is kind of artisanal; a labour of love that seems more a meditative ritual than the actions of somebody in the trade. Curator: It’s truly a remarkable example of baroque printmaking. The combination of intricate detail and dramatic contrast encapsulates so much meaning within the constraints of the engraving technique. Editor: It makes me realize how every line tells a story. Each mark seems both delicate and so deliberately placed, hinting at the divine and earthly at once. Thank you!