Saint Jerome in school c. 15th century

Editor: This artwork, “Saint Jerome in school” by an anonymous artist, presents a series of scenes from the life of Saint Jerome. The stark, linear quality of the printmaking gives it a very narrative feel. What do you see as the significant aspects of its creation and context? Curator: This piece exemplifies the democratization of knowledge through printmaking. The materials – paper and ink – were relatively inexpensive, allowing for wider dissemination. The labor involved in creating the woodcut, the repeated image, speaks to a desire for accessibility, challenging the elite status of illuminated manuscripts. Editor: So, the material itself played a role in challenging existing hierarchies? Curator: Precisely. The means of production allowed for a wider audience to engage with religious narratives, impacting not only art consumption but also potentially influencing religious understanding. It shifts the focus from unique, precious objects to reproducible, accessible information. I now see how printmaking has broader social implications. Thank you.