Moses and the Two Silver Trumpets (Num. X, 1-10) c. 15th century

Editor: This is a woodcut print titled "Moses and the Two Silver Trumpets," by an anonymous artist. I'm struck by the simplified forms and the bright colors. What can you tell me about the context in which this work was made? Curator: Consider the materiality of the woodcut itself. It is relatively inexpensive and easily reproduced. How does that influence the dissemination of the image and its potential audience? The labor involved in carving the block versus painting the image? Editor: That's a good point. It suggests a wider distribution and perhaps a less wealthy audience. So, it is not only about the image but how it was made, for whom, and where? Curator: Precisely. The process and materials speak volumes about its purpose and reception. Editor: I never thought about it that way before! Thanks for the insight.