The Adoration of the Shepherds; Christ's Entry into Jerusalem c. late 1580s

Editor: This is a sheet featuring two engravings by Anton Wierix II, "The Adoration of the Shepherds" and "Christ's Entry into Jerusalem". They appear to be from a book. The colors are striking, and I'm curious about their connection. What do you see in this work? Curator: Ah, a diptych, of sorts! Juxtaposing birth and arrival. One swaddled, adored, the other processing, heralded. Wierix, in his precise lines, captures humanity's hopes pinned on this figure. Notice the shared humanity in the faces—hope, wonder. Does it make you consider the book's purpose? Perhaps devotional, perhaps didactic? Editor: I see what you mean. The shared expressions link the two scenes in an interesting way. It’s made me think about the different stages of Christ's life and how they were viewed at the time. Curator: Precisely! Each impression meant for reflection. The artist invites us to contemplate the narrative arc. It's a poignant reminder of the power of images to inspire contemplation and understanding.