Abraham and Lot Leaving for Canaan 1584

Editor: This print, "Abraham and Lot Leaving for Canaan," by Adriaen Collaert, depicts a biblical scene. The style feels somewhat theatrical to me; how do you interpret this work? Curator: Notice how the figures are arranged almost like actors on a stage. This theatricality points to the importance of visual storytelling. Collaert uses symbols familiar to his audience: What do you make of the posture of the figures? Editor: They appear to be leading their people away to settle in a new land. Their shoulders are squared, and they look determined. Curator: Precisely. It's about continuity and cultural memory. Leaving behind the old to create something new in Canaan. A physical journey to new beliefs and a better way of living. Editor: I see, so the image becomes a symbol of hope and cultural identity. Curator: Exactly. I'm glad you see it now.