Saint Maximilian c. 17th century

Editor: This is Jacques Callot's "Saint Maximilian," a small etching. There's a really striking symbolic presence to the saint. What do you see in how Callot portrays him? Curator: The bishop's staff and halo speak to his authority and saintly status, of course, but consider the beard. Across cultures, long beards often signify wisdom, age, and respect. It's a powerful visual cue. Editor: So, it's not just about religious iconography? Curator: Precisely. Callot's drawing taps into a deeper well of cultural memory, using established symbols to evoke specific feelings and associations. Editor: That makes me think differently about it! Thanks. Curator: My pleasure. These symbols continue to shape our understanding.