Val van Jericho 1645 - 1646

Curator: Standing before us is a work titled "Val van Jericho," or "Fall of Jericho," created around 1645-1646 by Christoffel van Sichem II. It's a compelling print, utilizing engraving and pen techniques. It almost has a woodcut feel, doesn't it? Editor: It does. My first impression is… chaotic beauty. There's a theatrical drama to the destruction, yet the marching figures project an odd serenity amidst it all. Like a macabre parade. Curator: The narrative depicted here is rich in religious significance; the story of the Israelites, led by Joshua, conquering Jericho. The ark being carried and the blowing of trumpets are integral to the story, as the walls famously collapsed after their procession. Editor: Absolutely, and it's impossible to ignore the blatant demonstration of divine power, isn’t it? The artist uses this moment of destruction to really highlight the fragility of human constructions and power structures when set against... a supposed 'higher will'. It makes you think about colonialism and the supposed justifications. Curator: I think it also touches on something intrinsic about creation and destruction, as if the city's destruction births the new era for the Israelites. It's all rather binary, though—aren't things like that in these history pieces? Editor: Yes. But perhaps what's really compelling here is seeing how these old, rather black-and-white historical allegories can still provoke some extremely timely thoughts. I guess the core anxieties about power, about authority and what’s "right," sadly continue to run rampant, don’t they? Curator: Unfortunately. Even the city itself almost seems to ripple outward, its lines jagged with that kind of… organized panic—the methodical destruction is palpable. Editor: Looking closely, the contrast and line work create incredible dynamism. You feel the ground rumbling, almost hear the trumpets blaring. It's a real accomplishment when you consider that it is from just some pen strokes. Curator: Absolutely. It really encapsulates both the artistic and socio-political turbulence of the era it was produced. Editor: I find myself leaving this piece feeling a slight discomfort from it – reflecting on themes of religious conflict that continue to unfortunately shape our present world. Thank you for shedding some light on these layers. Curator: And thanks for prompting these thoughts! I think its story is more resonant today, with these points being put to light.