Saint James the Younger c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have an engraving, titled "Saint James the Younger," by an anonymous artist. The saint is depicted holding a T-square. Editor: It's remarkable. I'm struck by the dramatic contrast created through line work and the radiant halo effect. Curator: The T-square is thought to be a reference to his death by being thrown from the Temple, connecting his martyrdom to construction work. Consider the social dynamics present in the creation of religious iconography. Editor: Yes, and the artist uses strong, diagonal lines in the drapery, which adds to the dynamic composition, directing our eye. Curator: The image would have been distributed widely, contributing to the cult of Saint James while reinforcing prevailing social structures. Editor: I see how the composition uses a limited range of values so that the divine is both present and distant at once. Curator: Indeed. Viewing this work, one can consider how religious imagery permeated early modern culture. Editor: And how the artist uses the formal elements to evoke specific emotional responses.