Illustration XLVII: the 11th figure: John is given a reed to measure the temple of God, the altar, and those that worship therein. God will empower two witnesses to prophesy who are to be killed by the beast (Revelation 11). c. 16th century

Curator: This piece, Illustration XLVII, presents a scene from Revelation 11. It depicts John being given a reed to measure the temple, altar, and worshippers, while also referencing the two witnesses prophesied to be killed by the beast. Editor: The stark lines and textural hatching create an almost oppressive atmosphere. It's raw, visceral, almost unsettling in its visual declaration. Curator: Indeed. Consider the historical context. These woodcuts served to visualize and disseminate religious narratives to a wide audience during a time of significant religious and political upheaval. Editor: The composition is quite intriguing. The figure with the reed divides the space, setting up a visual tension between the sacred and the profane, especially with the beast lurking in the lower right. Curator: The very act of measuring, of quantifying the sacred space, speaks volumes about the changing relationship between humanity, faith, and institutional power during that era. Editor: I find the repetition of the lines create a vibrating effect that adds to the tension and perhaps hints at instability. Curator: Absolutely. The piece offers rich insight into the social and political landscape of its time. Editor: It certainly forces one to consider how belief systems are visualized and disseminated.