Handle for Knife or Fork, Ornamented with Figures 

Editor: This engraving, "Handle for Knife or Fork, Ornamented with Figures" by Hans Janssen, part of the decorative art of the Renaissance, is quite detailed for its size. The figures depicted give me the impression of royalty or a formal occasion, perhaps with underlying mythological or symbolic weight. What do you see in this piece, particularly from a cultural standpoint? Curator: I see a fascinating commentary on power dynamics and gender roles, especially within the context of Renaissance decorative arts. We have figuration divided into registers, framed with foliage, animals and masks – perhaps suggesting different aspects of rulership? Who were the primary users and consumers of luxury cutlery during this era? This piece serves as an indication of the aspirations and values of the elite classes and how these notions were communicated through objects of everyday life. What power is communicated, specifically, do you see depicted? Editor: The lower panel showing the figure carrying the sword and possibly scales seems suggestive of Justice and may speak to the responsibilities tied to rulership. That connection to legal power hadn't occurred to me before, thinking of objects as social or cultural signs rather than only beautiful adornments. Curator: Exactly. And think about who commissioned and owned such items. Were women included? What statements did ownership make in a highly gendered social structure? It pushes us to consider how seemingly mundane objects become active participants in constructing identity and reinforcing or challenging established social orders. The historical background here also helps us better interpret art today and gives food for thought about societal assumptions that we consider normal.