Heliodorus lying before the Temple of Jerusalem c. 15th century

Curator: This image, “Heliodorus lying before the Temple of Jerusalem,” is from an unknown artist and presents a chaotic scene. It's all lines and angles. What's your immediate take? Editor: Brutal! There's a real sense of violence in the crude woodcut style. I see figures looming over a prone man, weapons raised, about to strike. It's unsettling. Curator: Indeed. The story originates from the Second Book of Maccabees, where Heliodorus is struck down after attempting to desecrate the Temple. Notice how the attackers seem almost robotic. Editor: There's no tenderness, only blunt force. I guess it’s trying to portray divine retribution as merciless, but it comes across a bit… heartless? Curator: Perhaps the artist sought to convey the uncompromising nature of divine justice. Symbols of power and authority clash here. Editor: Yes, and now that you mention it, the composition does draw your eye to the center, to the downed figure. It's a bit much, really. Curator: It's certainly a direct interpretation, full of the visual language of its time. Editor: Well, it's definitely left an impression. A bit too much maybe.