Koorhek in de Sint-Janskathedraal te Den Bosch before 1880

Curator: Looking at this drawing, I immediately get a sense of architectural precision. Editor: And what you're seeing here is a print of the choir screen, or "Koorhek" as it's titled, inside St. John's Cathedral in Den Bosch, made before 1880. It's a study rendered in line, revealing remarkable details of the wood carving. Curator: Indeed, I’m drawn to the repetitive pattern of the balusters and how that modularity speaks to the labor and the crafting that went into realizing this architectural element. Editor: From my perspective, I see more than craftsmanship. Consider the social function. This screen separated the clergy from the laity, physically embodying the power dynamics within the medieval church. Curator: Certainly, but consider the material reality of oak, as indicated in the text below the print. The oak itself has a symbolic weight—a robust, locally sourced material. We should acknowledge the foresting and transport—labor all too often unseen, especially during this era. Editor: Agreed, and we can expand that examination to its creation in medieval society, with the clear hierarchical distinction it enforces during religious ceremony. Did this enhance spirituality, or further oppress certain members from participating within it? How would women experience the Koorhek, or people of color who sought inclusion and refuge within the community? Curator: The homemade, almost letter-like paper really adds another layer of tactile and historic depth as well. There's evidence here of aging, preservation efforts too, which lends itself to appreciating materiality. Editor: That's fair. These kinds of considerations open so much about this drawing beyond its sheer depiction of architectural elements, urging us to rethink history through art and its purpose within evolving power structures. Curator: Absolutely. Focusing on these things together adds rich understanding to even what might initially be seen simply as line drawing of woodwork. Editor: I couldn’t agree more. Thanks for diving deeper with me into the historical narratives of "Koorhek."