Christ Curing the Man with a Withered Hand c. 16th century

Editor: This woodcut, "Christ Curing the Man with a Withered Hand" by an anonymous artist, presents a powerful scene. The contrast is striking, yet something about the body language feels so formalized. What symbols do you observe at play here? Curator: Notice the city backdrop, a symbol of societal order contrasting with the man's "withered" state, a potent visual metaphor for being excluded or broken. The halo around Christ signifies divinity, of course, but consider the hands—one extended in healing, the other gesturing in blessing. The viewer is asked to witness a sacred act. Editor: It's interesting how the architecture places the event within a certain social structure, adding depth to the healing narrative. I hadn't considered that. Curator: Indeed. The composition invites reflection on power, faith, and the redemptive act of inclusion. Editor: Thanks, I see the interplay of these symbols now.