Multiplication of the Fish and the Loaves c. 15th century

Editor: Here we have an anonymous woodcut print titled "Multiplication of the Fish and the Loaves" held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's quite striking with its stark black and white contrast. What do you see in this piece formally? Curator: The image presents a fascinating study in line and composition. Notice how the artist uses parallel lines to create texture and volume in the figures' robes, yet also to suggest a horizon line in the background. How does that linear rhythm affect your eye? Editor: I see how the lines lead my eye around the figures, and then to the background! But how can the artist represent depth with only lines? Curator: Depth is suggested by contrasting the density of the lines and also the placement of the characters in the plane of the image. What is your impression of the spatial relations given the use of line? Editor: I see, it's a careful balance! I hadn't considered how much depth could be conveyed in such a simplified manner. Curator: Indeed. Formally, it’s a sophisticated manipulation of a limited vocabulary to express narrative and space.