Pelagia Margarita Antiochena 16th-17th century

Editor: This is Adriaen Collaert's "Pelagia Margarita Antiochena," and I'm struck by the contrast between the detailed city in the background and the intimate scene in the foreground. What story do you think Collaert is trying to tell us? Curator: It is a captivating visual story, isn’t it? The print depicts the life of Saint Pelagia, a former actress who converted to Christianity. That backdrop, possibly Antioch, fades as she embraces a life of repentance, symbolized by her simple garments and devotion to Christ, a powerful transformation. Editor: So, it's a visual representation of her spiritual journey? Curator: Precisely! The city represents her past life of worldly pleasures, while the small shrine and her humble posture signify her new path. The etching captures a moment of profound change. What do you think of that contrast between her two lives? Editor: It's like two different worlds colliding, showing the impact of her decision. I never thought one image could contain such a complex transformation.