The statue of Jupiter at Olympia 17th century

Editor: So, here we have a 17th-century print, "The statue of Jupiter at Olympia," made by an anonymous artist. It depicts, well, Jupiter, surrounded by quite the hubbub of people and activities. I'm struck by the sort of theatrical composition, like a stage filled with actors. It almost feels like a scene from a play, frozen in time. What's your initial take? Curator: Theatrical is spot on! It's Baroque drama in monochrome, wouldn't you say? My eyes are immediately drawn to the figure of Jupiter, monumental and aloof, a Zeus for the ages. But then the teeming life below pulls you in. Imagine the power this image would have had then, reminding people of ancient grandeur and divine right. Have you noticed how everyone below Jupiter are gazing, gesturing, almost imploring toward Jupiter, as if hoping for a touch of the immortal or a smidge of inspiration? Or maybe, just maybe, it’s to feel truly seen in their devotion, or be absolved from whatever might be in their souls… Editor: I do see that tension. They’re desperate! But that almost makes Jupiter seem further away, uncaring almost, lost in his godly grandeur. It's intriguing how the artist captures both the reverence and the distance. Curator: Yes, I mean Jupiter is on a pedestal, and they are on, literally, the bottom step…almost the bottom rung in the great hierarchy. And notice the two wrestlers there? Their inclusion…could it be a parallel to the challenges and trials that are ever-present within any civilisation, any era? Or perhaps a bit of entertainment during times when one should be in church! So, yes, the people, I suspect, are beseeching some kind of change in their fate – one they may need to manifest and do for themselves, however. What does it stir in you now, do you feel differently? Editor: It's definitely deeper now. It feels less like a simple historical record and more like a commentary on power, faith, and the human condition, even, which feels relevant today, doesn’t it? Curator: Absolutely. This print captures that enduring dance between the human and the divine, a stage play in a gallery, still speaking volumes centuries later, now we’ve delved into what’s beneath the godly beard!