James the Elder c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have a print titled "James the Elder," by an anonymous artist, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Right away, I'm struck by the starkness of the lines, almost like a blueprint. It feels less about reverence and more about process, wouldn't you say? Curator: Perhaps. To me, it feels like an earnest attempt to capture the essence of Saint James; note the halo, the pilgrim's staff, the simple cloak, all rendered with great detail. Editor: And the feet! Bare, calloused feet. This artist is making a statement about the material reality of religious figures, the labor involved in their journeys, their humanity. Curator: That's a lovely interpretation. It makes me think about what "belief" looks like through labor. Editor: Precisely. It's a testament to the tangible world informing the spiritual one. This image offers a grounded perspective.