Copres Speaking to his Monks; Copres Preaching Against Heretics c. 15th century

Curator: So, this piece depicts "Copres Speaking to his Monks; Copres Preaching Against Heretics." It's undated, but given the printing style, we can place it roughly in the late medieval or early Renaissance period. What strikes you about it? Editor: The composition feels very direct, almost didactic. There's a clear separation between Copres and his followers and then the scene with the heretics. It feels like it's making a strong statement. What do you see in this work? Curator: Indeed. Look at the figures' faces: Copres' calm authority versus the expressions of the kneeling figure consumed by flames. This embodies the tension of religious doctrine versus perceived heresy. The image reinforces existing power structures. How does this piece make you think about the role of religious imagery in that period? Editor: It makes me wonder about the artist’s intended audience and what messages they were meant to take away about religious authority and the consequences of dissent. I hadn't considered the power dynamics so directly. Thanks for pointing that out!