Christus in het huis van Marta en Maria Magdalena en Lazarus 1483 - 1510

Editor: This is "Christus in het huis van Marta en Maria Magdalena en Lazarus" – Christ in the House of Martha and Mary Magdalene and Lazarus - made sometime between 1483 and 1510 by Hans Burgkmair. It's a black and white woodcut print, and there’s such incredible detail in the lines! The mood feels really intimate and domestic. What do you make of this particular scene? Curator: You know, when I look at this, I feel drawn into that little room, don't you? Burgkmair captures such a complex moment of familial and spiritual dynamics. Martha, fussing over the meal - the practical one, right? Mary Magdalene at Christ's feet, absorbed, the spiritual seeker. Even Lazarus lurking by window - as if to hint at something larger, death and resurrection hanging in the air. I wonder, does Martha feel resentful? Editor: Definitely a bit of tension! It seems like Martha is actively gesturing, almost scolding. Is she perhaps upset about having to do all the work herself? Curator: Precisely! The Renaissance loved those contrasts - action versus contemplation, earthly versus divine. Look at how Burgkmair uses the light - the divine light focused on Christ, then fades back. It feels like the light of inspiration, but you have to choose to bathe in it. Know what I mean? Editor: That’s a cool idea, the distribution of light like that. So it's not just a biblical scene but also a kind of commentary on how people choose to live, in relation to…everything? Curator: Exactly! This engraving, it's more than just ink on paper, wouldn't you agree? It is also a lesson. One to consider while doing the dishes perhaps, or maybe it is something more than that! Editor: It certainly gave me a new way to look at things. Thanks for that. Curator: My pleasure! And next time I am doing dishes I will consider that light as well!