Last Judgment c. 17th century

Editor: This is an intriguing woodcut titled "Last Judgment," from an unknown artist. The circular composition is striking. How do you interpret this work through a materialist lens? Curator: Let's consider the production of this image. Woodcuts were relatively accessible. This print likely served a didactic purpose, communicating religious doctrine to a wide audience. The repetition inherent in printmaking allowed for broad consumption of this imagery, reinforcing societal norms and beliefs. Editor: So, it's less about artistic expression and more about mass production and dissemination of ideas? Curator: Precisely. The very act of carving and printing signifies labor, and the resulting image reflects the social and religious landscape of its time. We must consider who made it, for whom, and what purpose it served in the economy of belief. Editor: That's a great way to think about this print! It really shifts my focus from the religious narrative to its social role.