Clare of Montefalco c. 15th century

Curator: Editor: This is an image of "Clare of Montefalco" by an anonymous artist. It seems to be a printed page, perhaps from a book. The image itself has a rather serene quality. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I’m struck by the contrast between the detailed figure and the dense text surrounding it. The artist, though unknown, clearly intended to create a powerful visual anchor. Notice how Clare holds both a lily and a heart—symbols of purity and love—almost offering them to the viewer. What a paradox! Editor: So, it’s about offering and receiving? Curator: Precisely! And perhaps about the ways these symbolic gestures intertwine with the written word, creating layers of meaning. It makes me wonder about the intended audience and their relationship to both image and text. Editor: That’s given me a lot to think about. Thanks!