Saint Jude c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have Lucas Cranach the Elder's "Saint Jude," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a striking image. The lines are so precise, almost frenetic, and the scene feels strangely chaotic. What's your read on this piece? Curator: Well, it's interesting, isn't it? It's a woodcut, so that explains the graphic quality. But look at the expressions, the gestures! It's a depiction of religious zealotry, I think. The almost comical violence aimed at Jude undercuts its own seriousness, don't you agree? And Cranach, being close to Luther, was certainly commenting on the state of religion at the time. Editor: So, it's almost satirical? Curator: Precisely! Editor: Wow, I didn't catch all of that! Thanks!