S. Carolus Borromaeus c. 19th century

Curator: Let's examine this print, S. Carolus Borromaeus, made by Xaver Steifensand. I’m particularly struck by the textures he creates with what must have been a very involved engraving process. Editor: My eye is immediately drawn to the figure of the saint himself. He’s holding a cross and a rosary, both powerful symbols of faith and devotion. Curator: And consider the labor involved in producing the multiple impressions of this image. Each line meticulously etched, suggesting a democratizing effect on religious imagery. Editor: The halo, of course, signifies his sainthood, while the cathedral in the background situates him within the church hierarchy and his role within it. Curator: Right, but thinking about Steifensand reproducing an image of Borromeo, we see the rise of print culture, how images circulate and transform. Editor: Ultimately, the image offers a very specific vision of religious authority. Food for thought.