Saint Michael c. 1430 - 1440

Editor: This woodcut, "Saint Michael," dates from around 1430-1440. I find the figure's serenity striking, especially considering he's holding scales weighing a soul against, it seems, a devilish figure. What do you see in this piece that speaks to its time and our own? Curator: The depiction of Saint Michael as a figure of justice connects deeply with the social anxieties of the medieval period. It reflects a yearning for divine intervention and fairness within a society often marked by stark inequalities. Think about it: justice was often elusive for the vast majority. This print offered a visual reassurance, a powerful symbol of ultimate accountability. But how do you think we read this symbolism today, in an age grappling with its own injustices? Editor: That's a great question. It feels relevant, perhaps even more so. We still struggle with equitable systems, making the image of a just arbiter poignant. Curator: Exactly! And we can unpack it further. The woodcut medium itself made such imagery accessible to a wider audience, fostering a shared cultural understanding of these religious and moral principles. How do the sharp lines and accessible format potentially affect how the message resonates? Editor: I guess the bold lines and graphic nature really simplify a complex concept, making it very immediate. Maybe that was the point. Curator: Precisely. It bypasses overly intellectualized theology and goes straight to the heart of what people yearned for: fairness and redemption. Reflecting on the piece, its accessibility and potent symbolism offer valuable insights into past and present struggles for social justice. Editor: That is a fresh perspective, and looking at it now, it makes me see so many more subtle and overt things than before! Thank you.