H. Flavia 1565 - 1630

Curator: This engraving, likely created between 1565 and 1630, depicts the martyrdom of Saint Flavia. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. Editor: Well, that's brutal. Even within the ornamental oval frame, there's no escaping the violence of the scene. The lines are so sharp; you can almost feel the blow about to land. Curator: The use of line, typical of the Baroque printmaking style, is indeed crucial here. Notice how the density of the lines creates depth and shadow, heightening the dramatic effect. Editor: Absolutely, the artist uses hatching to model the figures, especially the tormentor, really emphasizing his musculature and forceful pose. It all centers on the passive figure of Saint Flavia, illuminated and vulnerable. The image portrays her strength, perhaps even defiance. Was there resistance in that time to this public display of female empowerment? Curator: It is highly probable. Prints like this had a vital function, especially within the context of the Counter-Reformation. Images of martyrdom served to inspire piety and reinforce faith, playing a part in propaganda of that time. Editor: Right, the narrative of martyrdom and divine grace. Also, this image is hardly unique in that context; many works romanticize religious cruelty, so, where do we situate its relevance, aside from its propaganda? Is it pushing some kind of limit? Curator: While the theme is not unusual for the era, the artist’s stylistic choices should not be ignored. Take note of the figures' contrapposto poses, which convey movement and emotional tension. The details within the frame also mirror the emotional violence that occurs in the work's body. These elements converge in such a way as to focus all attention on Saint Flavia herself. Editor: Ultimately, I suppose what is captured, beyond the literal story, is the tension between brutality and serenity, chaos, and stoic acceptance. A push and pull made that much more compelling by the detail inherent in this old engraving style. Curator: It seems the interplay of line and shadow have allowed you to perceive the thematic juxtapositions inherent to the scene.