Burying the Dead 1581 - 1582

Curator: This print, "Burying the Dead" by Adriaen Collaert, shows a scene of clandestine burial. I’m immediately drawn to the figures carrying and lowering bodies. Editor: It's a somber image, isn't it? The muted colors contrast with the urgency of the actions depicted, creating a palpable tension and highlighting the emotional weight of the figures' actions. Curator: Collaert made this around the turn of the 17th century, a time of immense religious and political upheaval. Prints like these circulated widely, influencing beliefs and shaping public opinion. The act of burying the dead becomes an act of defiance. Editor: Death, burial rituals, and the idea of sanctifying a space resonate with me. The image recalls the power of collective memory, a visual reminder of shared human experiences across time and cultures. Curator: Exactly. The print speaks to the human condition, the universal need for dignity, and the power of resistance. Editor: It does leave you pondering the enduring need for compassion.