Christ holding a globe, looking to the left and making the sign of blessing with his right hand, clouds behind him, after Reni (?) 17th century

Editor: So, this intaglio print from the 17th century, titled "Christ holding a globe, looking to the left…", is quite striking. The figure of Christ is front and center, bestowing a blessing. I find his gaze quite intense. What stands out to you when you look at this work? Curator: This print resonates with the political and social turbulence of the 17th century. The globe, in Christ's hand, symbolizes not just divine dominion, but perhaps a pointed assertion of power amid widespread social upheaval. How does depicting Christ with typically European features, holding power, influence contemporary interpretations, do you think? Editor: It makes me think about colonialism and how religion was often used to justify it. It almost feels like it could be reinforcing a Eurocentric view of faith. Curator: Precisely. The act of blessing becomes complicated, doesn't it? Think about the indigenous populations who were converted, often forcibly, and how images like this played a role in that power dynamic. The seemingly benign gesture of blessing could be viewed as an act of symbolic dominance. Who does this image serve? What does it leave out? Editor: I never thought of it that way. It really highlights the problematic use of religious imagery. I initially just saw a typical religious scene, but now I'm questioning everything about it. Curator: That discomfort is important. It shows how art can reflect, but also reinforce, systemic inequalities. Examining those layers critically is crucial. Editor: I’ll definitely look at Baroque art differently from now on, considering the historical implications. Curator: And hopefully, we can all move forward a little wiser for it.