Johannes de Doper preekt in het bos 1621

Editor: We're looking at "Johannes de Doper preekt in het bos" or "John the Baptist Preaching in the Woods," a 1621 engraving by Johann Jenet. There’s a distinct theatrical air about it. A very organized crowd amid this wildly overgrown landscape, almost like players on a stage. What grabs you when you look at it? Curator: That staging you noticed is so key! This isn't just landscape; it's history painting masquerading as such, and the 'stage' helps cement that idea! Note how the light directs our eye, pulling us through this sea of people to rest on John the Baptist. There's almost an…aura about him, would you agree? Even the trees lean in, listening! Does it remind you of any modern day figures who can move a crowd with their speeches? Editor: Hmmm, I can almost see that effect! I guess his influence spreads outwards. He seems rather removed from them though? Is it a contrast or kind of paradox of authority being both inside and apart from us? Curator: A lovely observation! The Baroque loves a paradox. There’s intimacy in the scene and grand narrative combined in that dense landscape. To Jenet, and Baroque sensibilities, this all adds to its power. Can you sense this at play too in any other areas or places beyond what seems like paradox? Editor: Well I see lots of the crowd's faces, I guess... or their gestures as they point inwards, focused and eager. Like you suggested, they want to drink in his words? It all creates this rather lively stage. The people are individuals, but collectively are one? A visual embodiment of 'divine message' made manifest! It's funny! The wild scene suddenly feels civilized and controlled... Curator: Exactly. Art’s funny that way, isn't it? Like the trees giving way and giving space for all these figures to show their reverence and create community! Seeing those contradictions really opens up the whole thing, don’t you think? Editor: I agree! Seeing those layers adds such depth to it. I need to be less quick to judge an artwork! Thanks for revealing that curtain today.