The Last Supper; Christ Washing Peter's Feet c. late 1580s

Editor: This is Anton Wierix II's "The Last Supper; Christ Washing Peter's Feet," at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by the juxtaposition of the formal meal and the intimate act of foot-washing. What can you tell me about the cultural significance of these images being paired? Curator: This diptych highlights two key moments in the Gospels regarding humility and sacrifice. The Last Supper established the Eucharist ritual, and Jesus washing feet models servant leadership. Its public role would be to instruct religious followers on proper behaviors. Editor: So, the pairing is meant to emphasize specific socio-political values? Curator: Precisely. In a time when hierarchy was strictly enforced, these images promoted alternative social models. Did it succeed in changing social structures? Probably not, but it offered a powerful message, and a potential for more. Editor: That's a fascinating way to view art – as a reflection of, and potential challenge to, the status quo. Curator: Indeed. It encourages us to examine the values that are being promoted and their potential impact.