Illlustration from Brant, Navis Stultifera c. 15th century

Editor: This illustration from Brant's "Navis Stultifera" features several figures and animals interacting with a large wheel. It's quite striking in its graphic nature. What do you see in this piece, especially considering its creation process? Curator: I’m drawn to the woodcut itself. The labor involved in carving these blocks, the paper used for printing, and the social function of disseminating information – these are all crucial. The image wasn’t just 'art,' but a reproducible commodity with a specific purpose. Editor: So, the meaning isn't just in the imagery, but also in its accessibility? Curator: Precisely! The means of production shaped the message and its reach. This image highlights the labor, materiality, and social context behind it. Editor: That provides a different lens for understanding its impact. Curator: Exactly. Looking at art through the lens of production reveals hidden layers of meaning.