Heilige Michaël verjaagt opstandige engel uit hemel 1590 - 1610

Editor: Here we have “Saint Michael Expelling Rebellious Angels from Heaven,” an engraving made between 1590 and 1610 by Joan Berwinckel. It has such a dramatic feel, with all that chiaroscuro lighting and swirling chaos. What are your initial thoughts when you look at it? Curator: The print is fascinating when considering the politics of imagery in its period. The drama, as you noticed, isn't merely aesthetic. Think of the Reformation – visual culture became a battleground. How do you imagine the public would react to the symbolism within this piece, the explicit visual message of good overcoming evil represented in Michael triumphing? Editor: I guess the symbolism of divine authority restoring order would resonate with people, especially given religious tensions back then? Is there a connection to events of that time that might shed light on its significance? Curator: Absolutely. Consider the Counter-Reformation’s use of art. The Church used these kinds of dramatic visual narratives to reassert its authority, to visually reinforce Catholic doctrine during a time of intense questioning. What do you notice about the composition and the gestures of the figures? How do they serve that purpose? Editor: Well, Michael has that strong, confident pose, crushing the defeated angel… almost looks like he's about to deliver the final blow. And the heavenly light shines exclusively on him. It is all very staged. So it aims to remind everyone of the Church’s ultimate power and righteousness, is what you are suggesting. Curator: Precisely. And consider the medium. Printmaking allowed for wider dissemination of this message, embedding this imagery deeply into the cultural consciousness of the time. What is fascinating for me is how effectively the visual narrative operates to convey that kind of ideology. Editor: I never thought about it quite that way, framing art as a visual argument within a historical power struggle. Thank you! Curator: Indeed. Analyzing art through a historical lens reveals a much more profound and nuanced understanding of not just the artwork but also the social and cultural values that it reflects and reinforces.