Saint Mathias c. 17th century

Editor: This is Jacques Callot’s etching of Saint Mathias. It’s quite small, but the detail is incredible. The saint looks rather somber. What strikes you when you look at this work? Curator: Well, it's more than just somber, isn't it? It's intensely spiritual. Callot captures a gravity that transcends the miniature scale. Can you see how the lines converge on Mathias, almost pulling us into his contemplation? Editor: I do now. It's like he's carrying the weight of the world… or, at least, his apostolic duties! I hadn't noticed how the background sort of fades away. Curator: Exactly! The crispness of Mathias contrasts beautifully with the hazier, more chaotic scene behind him, almost like a dream. It’s a glimpse into an internal world made visible. Editor: This gives a lot of context on the Saint's importance. Curator: Indeed! It makes you wonder, doesn't it, what thoughts are swirling behind that halo?