Supper at Emmaus c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have an anonymous woodcut, "Supper at Emmaus," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a simple scene, but there's a stillness to it. What can you tell me about the cultural context of this image? Curator: This print speaks volumes about the role of religious imagery in shaping public understanding. The stark lines and accessible format made it easily reproducible, disseminating the biblical story of the Emmaus meal widely. How do you think that accessibility might have impacted its reception? Editor: It probably brought the story to people who couldn't read or attend church. Curator: Precisely. It democratized religious narratives, making them open to broader interpretation and personal reflection outside the confines of the Church. I’m left wondering about its original function and setting; what about you? Editor: I hadn't thought about its potential use as a teaching tool, but it makes perfect sense. Thanks!