The Dead Christ on the Cross c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have François de Poilly the Elder's print, *The Dead Christ on the Cross*. I'm struck by how the artist places Christ against both a natural landscape and a fortified city. What symbolic readings do you see in this juxtaposition? Curator: The city behind the cross can be interpreted as a representation of worldly power, even earthly dominion, against which Christ's sacrifice stands. Look at the softening landscape on the right - do you see hints of redemption amidst the desolation? Editor: I do! It's like nature is bearing witness to something sacred, a spiritual transformation. Curator: Precisely. The city is static and imposing, but nature implies growth, a visual echo of resurrection, perhaps? Consider how this imagery would have impacted the viewer during that era. Editor: That's a fresh perspective; I hadn't considered the city as a symbol of earthly power versus spiritual renewal. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, symbols invite endless interpretations across time.