Saint Elizabeth c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Jacques Callot's miniature etching, Saint Elizabeth. It’s quite small, only about 3 by 2 inches. The Saint's foot rests on a little dragon. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a fascinating interplay of religious iconography and socio-political messaging. The dragon, likely representing heresy, is subdued by Elizabeth, a figure of piety and, importantly, nobility. Consider how Callot's prints circulated widely; this image reinforces the power of the Church and aristocracy. Is this something that resonates with you? Editor: Definitely. It’s interesting to consider how such a small image could wield so much influence. I hadn't considered the political aspect so directly. Curator: Right. These images weren't just devotional objects; they were tools in a much larger social game. I'm glad we could explore it together.