Heilige Bruno ten hemel gedragen door drie engelen 1632 - 1693

Editor: This is "Heilige Bruno ten hemel gedragen door drie engelen" or "Saint Bruno Carried to Heaven by Three Angels," a baroque engraving by François de Poilly made sometime between 1632 and 1693. The upward motion immediately strikes me—a figure being lifted toward the heavens. What story do you think is being told here? Curator: Ah, Saint Bruno! Now, isn't that a sight? Floating upward with such a serene look on his face, almost like he's discovered the ultimate shortcut. And the angels—well, they seem pretty thrilled about the whole endeavor. I imagine they have a good chiropractor because all that heavy lifting cannot be easy, can it? You'll notice, though, the landscape beneath isn't just any old patch of land. It’s evocative of the Carthusian Order’s austere life. What do you make of the composition – this almost forceful ascension contrasted with the grounded landscape? Editor: It's definitely a contrast. I guess it shows the earthly life and heavenly reward? But why this particular scene? What’s so special about Saint Bruno’s ascent? Curator: Good question. Saint Bruno founded the Carthusian Order. Their whole existence revolved around solitude, prayer, and contemplation – aiming to connect directly with the divine. De Poilly seems to suggest that a life dedicated to spiritual reflection paves a direct route to heavenly glory. The engraving, with its fine lines, almost seems to lift off the page – trying to replicate the weightlessness of Bruno's soul as he's carried up! But consider, too, that prints like these, popular at the time, played a crucial role in disseminating hagiographies, the lives of saints, molding them into accessible ideals. And ideals are slippery things, aren't they? What truths are revealed, and what complexities obscured? Editor: That's a perspective I hadn't considered. So, the print isn't just about Bruno; it’s about presenting a specific ideal of saintly life? Curator: Precisely! It’s carefully constructed message intended to resonate with and perhaps even inspire viewers. Consider the power of suggestion, here – it whispers a visual sermon, urging one heavenward through self-denial and prayer. Perhaps we could all use an angel-assisted boost now and then, although maybe a less ascetic path to enlightenment? Editor: Well, this definitely gives me a new way to appreciate these older prints—not just as historical artifacts but as active players in shaping beliefs. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Every piece is a puzzle box – just waiting for the right questions to pop it open.