Saint George c. 17th century

Curator: Here we have Jacques Callot's "Saint George," a print of minuscule scale but monumental action. It's housed right here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My goodness, it feels like a medieval fever dream! The saint, all armored up, looks like he's having a really bad day, and that dragon, well, it's seen better! Curator: Callot was a master of etching, and this demonstrates his skill in capturing dramatic narratives within confined spaces. Note how Saint George, eternally battling the dragon, was a popular symbol for religious and political strength during Callot's era. Editor: True, but look at the swirling lines, almost frantic, yet so controlled! It's as if Callot is reminding us that even heroes have moments of sheer panic amidst all the valor. Am I projecting? Curator: Perhaps. What you call panic, I see as skillful depiction of movement and tension. Editor: Still, it’s a great reminder that even tiny art can pack a huge emotional wallop, right? A tiny dragon fight for the ages! Curator: Indeed! A fascinating look at how societal ideals are conveyed through artistic interpretations.