Saint Fiacrus c. 17th century

Curator: This delicately rendered etching is Jacques Callot's "Saint Fiacrus", now residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It's incredibly small, just a few inches in either direction. Editor: My first thought? A little world contained. It feels serene, despite the starkness of the black and white. Almost like a dream. Curator: Indeed, Callot's mastery of line creates depth and texture within this miniature scene. Notice the layering of the landscape, receding into the distance. Editor: Right, there's Saint Fiacrus in the foreground, almost blending with that fallen tree. He's got a shovel in hand. The background is quite busy though, with those embracing figures and a fortress. What's it all about? Curator: Saint Fiacrus is the patron saint of gardeners. Legend states he could miraculously clear land for his monastery. Those figures are pilgrims seeking his help, and the fortress represents his hermitage. Editor: So it's a snapshot of a busy, yet holy life. Makes you wonder about the stories held within those lines, doesn't it? Curator: Absolutely, and Callot manages to evoke such a sense of narrative in such a small space.