Heilige Juliana 1583 - 1587

Editor: This is Johann Sadeler's "Heilige Juliana", dating back to between 1583 and 1587. It’s an engraving, a type of print, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. It definitely has this sort of dramatic, almost theatrical flair… What really jumps out to me is the figure standing triumphant over the dragon – what do you see in it? Curator: It reminds me of a well-staged opera, really. The virtue triumphant over evil – a real classic of the Mannerist style. See how her pose, the way the light catches her robes, even the exaggerated expressions of the vanquished figures beneath her – it's all about creating a powerful emotional experience for the viewer, right? She's utterly composed. Editor: Definitely theatrical! The composition almost feels a little… crowded? Is there a story there or some context I'm missing? Curator: Absolutely! It's Saint Juliana, of course. The sword is her primary attribute as is stepping over the dragon – she refused to marry a pagan senator, faced torture, and ultimately overcame a devil disguised as an angel. Johann has distilled it into this… operatic moment. Editor: Wow, the devil in disguise! So it’s like, one-stop shopping for symbolism, huh? Curator: Precisely! See how he positions that little broken sword down at the bottom? You can sense his inner joy just burst through the symbolism; it's just wonderfully absurd and incredibly pious, somehow. What is it about all that makes you laugh? Editor: The level of dramatic flourish! All this detail packed into such a small print feels like it's overflowing with meaning! I’m seeing the printmaking in a new light after our talk. Thanks so much. Curator: Absolutely, I now better get the emotional resonance. Until next time.