Compassion, from the Virtues 1552

Curator: This engraving, "Compassion, from the Virtues," was created in 1552 by Heinrich Aldegrever. The print exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style and resides here at the Art Institute of Chicago. What's your immediate impression, Editor? Editor: Haunting, almost. The fine lines give it a sense of fragility, yet the subject—a mother and child—emanates strength. I sense an ethereal quality but a profound sadness at the same time. Curator: Well, let's consider Aldegrever's process. The use of engraving on paper allowed for relatively widespread distribution of these allegorical images. They functioned almost like proto-memes of their day, disseminating concepts of virtue. How do you interpret that materiality? Editor: It's fascinating to think of "Compassion" as an early form of reproducible media, designed to inspire or instruct. Suddenly, the precision of the lines makes sense – as does the almost flattened quality to give it mass distribution and mass appeal. This piece must’ve landed quite the impression upon the viewer! There are tiny details I missed as well: The coat of arms with the Polar Bear is a whimsical choice for a virtue! What exactly does Compassion brand stand for here? Curator: That juxtaposition is important! By including those symbols, Aldegrever merges classical virtue with the societal hierarchy. His rendering encourages people to link those values with specific individuals and lineage in this particular case. It is a clever nod, because polar bears are known to sacrifice for their own, symbolizing selflessness for those around you! This particular virtue can provide a window into the cultural and material conditions of 16th-century Northern Europe! Editor: So, from a mass reproducible, shareable virtue meme to a statement of social standing, class and sacrifice, layered in details. This has a strange and rather beautiful symmetry! Curator: Exactly! And analyzing Aldegrever's use of material production expands the piece from purely artistic. I learned so much today too, Editor. Thank you! Editor: Thanks for the chat! I’m going to leave feeling grateful to walk around in our world a little more informed and equipped to reflect on virtue in media.