Drieluik met de gekroonde verlosser, Mozes en Aäron before 1876

Curator: We’re looking at an engraving called "Drieluik met de gekroonde verlosser, Mozes en Aäron" by Anselm Schmitz. It was created sometime before 1876, printed on paper. The work depicts a triptych. What are your initial impressions? Editor: It’s striking how stark the contrast is. The figures seem to emerge from a background of pure white, an almost ethereal setting. There is an air of solemnity in its composition and it reminds me of a medieval manuscript. Curator: The piece does have strong ties to the medieval period. Triptychs like this one often served a didactic function during the Middle Ages and the Early Renaissance. I wonder if Schmitz intended to evoke that same function within the rise of historicism in the 19th century? The museum’s labeling information suggests the three panels feature depictions of biblical figures, including the crowned redeemer. Editor: I am drawn to that central panel with the Crowned Redeemer, the use of foliage almost obscuring the scene, giving it this aura of nature and the divine co-existing in a very busy, chaotic, space. Are there particular iconographic choices that stand out to you in these depictions? Curator: Schmitz's choice to pair the Redeemer with Moses and Aaron speaks volumes, the association highlighting a link between the Old and New Testaments. Moses is of course law, Aaron the priesthood and intercession, thus placing Christ as superior to both. Placing these in three tiers within the whole would bring order and clarity in social-cultural norms. Editor: Absolutely. The triptych format itself adds layers of meaning, it reminds one of religious artwork such as alterpieces meant to emphasize hierarchical religious relationships, adding reverence to the piece. Curator: Indeed. This engraving reflects how historical forms continue to shape artistic and social understanding long after the eras they represent. It causes us to think how history impacts current societal structures, as the print brings religious contexts into more contemporary ideas. Editor: And for me, it underscores how symbols remain incredibly powerful visual shorthand through centuries. They carry complex cultural memory and spiritual power from then to the present day. Curator: A fantastic insight! It's precisely these enduring images that allow ongoing discourse about religion and politics over extended historical periods.