Studies of the Nose and Mouth c. 1622

Curator: Jusepe de Ribera, the 17th-century Spanish artist, created this etching titled "Studies of the Nose and Mouth." Editor: It's certainly striking! The raw, almost grotesque, detail gives it a visceral intensity. Curator: Ribera’s work often reflects the harsh realities of his time, but I think this is more of an academic study. Anatomical studies were integral to art training. Editor: Perhaps. The image of the open mouth, in particular, seems loaded. The mouth has long been a powerful symbol in art, representing not just speech, but also desire and vulnerability. Curator: His images were disseminated through prints like these. Ribera aimed at a broader audience than just the wealthy elite, contributing to the public understanding of art. Editor: Looking closer, I'm intrigued by the different emotional registers conveyed by these facial fragments. Some express pain, others appear almost comical. Curator: That complexity is what makes Ribera’s work so compelling and enduring. Editor: Indeed, these studies offer us an enduring glimpse into the artist's mind.