Saint Sabina c. 17th century

Editor: This is Jacques Callot's "Saint Sabina," a small etching. It has such a somber quality, a mood I can’t quite place. What do you see in this piece, especially regarding its historical context? Curator: Callot's print is one of many produced and circulated to promote specific saints within the Catholic Church, functioning almost like a religious advertisement. Notice the architectural setting. What does it say about the role of institutions in shaping our understanding of sanctity? Editor: So the print served to popularize Saint Sabina and reinforce the Church's authority. It makes me think about the power of images to shape religious belief. Curator: Exactly. And consider how readily these images were reproduced and disseminated, shaping a collective understanding. Something to ponder. Editor: That's given me a whole new perspective. Thanks!