Samson Killing the Lion c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Erasmus Quellinus' "Samson Killing the Lion." It's a small print, but the drama feels huge. All that muscle and fur – what do you make of the raw energy in this piece? Curator: It’s like a coiled spring about to snap. Notice how Quellinus uses the etching to create light and shadow, it almost feels like a stage. Samson isn't just killing a lion; he's wrestling with inner demons, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: That's interesting - so it’s not only about the physical strength? Curator: Precisely. It’s a battle of wills, a raw primal scream rendered in ink. Think about it - what does this say about humanity’s struggle with its own wild nature? Editor: I hadn't considered that! It really puts a new spin on the story. Curator: It’s amazing how such a small image can contain so much, isn't it? A true masterpiece.