Saints Quirin and Balbina c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Jacques Callot’s print of Saints Quirin and Balbina. It’s quite small, only a few inches, but it depicts a really dramatic scene. What stands out to you about the image? Curator: What jumps out at me is the socio-political context around religious iconography. Callot made this during the Counter-Reformation. How do you think imagery like this served a purpose beyond simple devotion? Editor: I guess it was a way to visually reinforce religious teachings and stories? Curator: Exactly. Prints like this made religious narratives accessible to a wider audience. Did you notice how it includes a violent scene in the background? Editor: You’re right, I hadn’t really considered its wider reach as propaganda. Thanks for sharing that perspective! Curator: My pleasure! It is fascinating how art reflects the power dynamics of its time.