St. James the Greater and St. John, from The Apostles 1435 - 1503

Editor: This is "St. James the Greater and St. John, from The Apostles," an engraving by Israhel van Meckenem, created sometime between 1435 and 1503. The precision of the lines is really striking. What do you see in terms of its formal elements? Curator: Indeed, the linework commands our attention immediately. Observe the controlled cross-hatching, employed to generate a tonal range, an illusion of depth and texture. The symmetry, framing two figures of seemingly disparate natures under a unifying arch, further establishes balance and draws our gaze to consider the compositional structure. Note how the texture in each halo contrasts so significantly with the architectural arch framing them, using lines running in opposing directions to achieve distinct differentiation. Editor: So the artist used very deliberate methods of composition, almost like a mathematical construction. Curator: Precisely. Consider also how the implements of each figure become formal elements: St. James holds a book, while St. John holds a chalice with a serpent. Each occupies a similar volume in the picture plane, achieving visual equivalence. Editor: What effect is achieved by positioning the figures so that their gaze falls below our own? Curator: A lowering, if you will, of our status, placing us as subservient to the divine. However, notice how both halos feature very distinct and non-aligned hatching? Even in apparent symmetry there are disruptions that may invite semiotic readings. Editor: So it seems the piece uses these little nuances to guide a more profound reading, instead of just being pleasing to the eye. It uses small forms to help understand larger themes! Curator: Indeed, and how very skillfully the artist leads us through the composition, and thus through that conceptual structure. It certainly invites further study of van Meckenem's work.