Herod ordering the imprisonment of Saint John the Baptist c. 16th century

Editor: This engraving, "Herod ordering the imprisonment of Saint John the Baptist," by Petrus Merecinus, feels so stark and unsettling. The figures are so tense! What catches your eye when you look at this work? Curator: The theatricality of it all! Petrus really captures the moment's drama. Herod, enthroned, seemingly unmoved, while John is being manhandled. Do you notice how the light emphasizes John’s vulnerability, contrasting with the cold detachment of Herod? It makes you wonder about the artist's intention, doesn't it? Editor: It does. I was focusing on the execution, but seeing it that way, the power dynamic is clearer. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. It’s like peering into a frozen play, isn't it?