Hubert c. 16th century

Curator: This woodcut presents Saint Hubert and the stag with the crucifix between its antlers. What strikes you about this image, removed as it is from the original source? Editor: The stark contrast and bold lines give it a dramatic feel. And the text surrounding the image makes me wonder about the relationship between the image and the narrative. How do you interpret this work in terms of its production and purpose? Curator: Well, consider the function of woodcuts in the period. They were easily reproducible, making religious stories accessible to a wider audience. The deliberate crudeness could be seen as a conscious choice, reflecting the material conditions of its making and consumption. It’s about democratizing religious imagery. Editor: So, the medium itself becomes part of the message, emphasizing accessibility and a kind of raw, direct connection to faith? Curator: Precisely. It makes you think about who was creating these images, and for whom. The labor, the materials, the intended audience – it all shapes the work’s meaning. Editor: It’s a really interesting way to look at art, moving beyond just aesthetics. Curator: Indeed.