Illustration II c. 15th century

Editor: This anonymous piece, simply titled "Illustration II" from the Harvard Art Museums, is a captivating woodcut. It has a rather striking, almost raw energy. What do you make of it? Curator: It speaks of a kind of primal faith, doesn't it? I see Moses, receiving the tablets, but almost overwhelmed by the divine presence. Note how the rigid lines contrast with the swirling energy above him. It feels less like a depiction and more like a feeling about faith. What do you think? Editor: I like that, I didn't quite see the almost anxious mood until now. Curator: Right? It makes you wonder about the artist's relationship with such a powerful vision.