Baptism Copy of 9th-10th century original.

Editor: This small ivory panel, titled "Baptism," shows a scene crowded with figures. I'm curious about the artist's decision to depict this sacred moment within such a densely populated composition. What can you tell me about it? Curator: The density reflects a desire to convey divine endorsement through multiple witnesses. Consider, too, how such depictions often served to reinforce social hierarchies. Who is given prominence and who is relegated to the background? Editor: That’s a great point about social hierarchies. I hadn't thought about that in relation to a baptism scene. Curator: Looking closer, how does the act of witnessing itself contribute to the construction of faith and power? What does it say about the role of community in validating religious narratives? Editor: That gives me a lot to think about in how this scene establishes a narrative, not just of faith, but of power. Thanks! Curator: Precisely! And power is always at play.