Saint Luke before 1585

Curator: Here we have Hans Collaert the Elder's "Saint Luke," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It strikes me as very balanced, almost symmetrical, with that central figure aloft on the clouds. Curator: Collaert places Luke, the Evangelist, with his symbol—the winged ox—amidst a backdrop imbued with deep theological meaning. Editor: The composition leads the eye in a circular fashion, aided by the geometric pattern that serves as the frame. Curator: Consider the political climate of the time; Collaert's work likely reflects complex dialogues about faith and patronage during the Reformation. Editor: Indeed, and the vividness of the colors and the crispness of the lines speak to the artistic skill present. Curator: A blend of artistry and religious commentary, it seems. Editor: A synthesis that gives much to contemplate both then, and now.