Christ Curing the Man with a Withered Hand c. 16th century

Curator: We’re looking at “Christ Curing the Man with a Withered Hand,” a small, unsigned print in the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It feels stark. The sharp, dark lines carve out the figures so economically, emphasizing the texture of their robes. Curator: The anonymity is significant, isn't it? This wasn't about individual artistry but disseminating a religious narrative widely. Woodcuts like these were vital for mass communication. Editor: And think about the labor involved. Someone meticulously carving that block of wood, inverting the image. It speaks of craft, rather than "high art". Curator: Absolutely. The print democratized access to religious imagery and was central to shaping popular piety. Editor: Seeing how it was made makes the miracle even more tangible. Curator: Exactly, and I find the contrast between the rough cuts and sacred subject matter really powerful.