Saint Albert c. 17th century

Curator: This is Jacques Callot's "Saint Albert," a small etching, only about 3 by 2 inches. It resides here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's striking how much narrative is packed into such a tiny space. The saint's calm demeanor contrasts so sharply with the grotesque demon he's confronting. Curator: Callot, working in the early 17th century, was a master of etching. His work often reflects the religious and political tensions of his time. Consider the context of the Counter-Reformation. Editor: Exactly. And look at the symbolism—the saint's halo versus the demon's serpentine body. It visualizes the struggle between good and evil, but with a very clear power dynamic at play. The saint's gesture is so dismissive. Curator: The print also circulated widely, furthering the Catholic Church's agenda to solidify its doctrines and defend itself from what it viewed as demonic influences. Editor: It makes you wonder about the role of such imagery in shaping societal perceptions of marginalized groups during that era. The demon is coded with elements of otherness, right? Curator: Indeed. Callot’s precise lines and compositions offer so much for us to consider about the intersection of faith, power, and representation. Editor: It's a powerful reminder of how art can be both a reflection of and a tool within broader social struggles.