Saint George and the Dragon 1460 - 1480

Editor: Here we have a medieval carving dating back to the late 15th century, “Saint George and the Dragon” by Hans Klocker. The figure has a stillness, an almost uncanny calmness in its pose. What strikes you about the imagery in this piece? Curator: The enduring image of Saint George slaying the dragon is deeply rooted in the cultural memory of overcoming evil and chaos. Think about it, what does the dragon represent here? Editor: I guess the dragon stands for danger, something primal that civilization is in conflict with. Curator: Precisely. But go further: The dragon also represents the pagan past that Christianity sought to overcome. And Saint George? Editor: He’s the embodiment of Christian ideals, chivalry, and courage. I see him more clearly now, thanks. The image embodies that moment of triumph of good over evil, a common medieval trope. Curator: Exactly! It’s a powerful symbolic rendering of faith, struggle, and ultimately, the victory of the new order over the old. It’s fascinating how potent that symbolism remains. Editor: I hadn’t really thought about that, focusing only on the literal action. That’s a reminder that the art of the era has meaning beyond the immediate, and that visual traditions still persist. Curator: Indeed. Understanding these layers allows us to engage with this sculpture on a much deeper, more meaningful level.