Saint Francis Restoring the Eyesight of a Blind Woman c. 18th century

Curator: This is Francesco Bartolozzi's "Saint Francis Restoring the Eyesight of a Blind Woman." Editor: It feels so theatrical, almost stage-like, with its stark black and white contrast. Curator: It's an engraving, a printmaking technique lending itself to those sharp contrasts. Consider the performative nature of faith and miracles in the context of 18th-century religious and social structures. Editor: Right, and the composition directs our eyes—the arch framing the scene, the figure kneeling forward, all leading to the focal point of the saint’s hand. Curator: The figures surrounding the event are an insight into the social hierarchy present at the time, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Agreed. Looking at the composition and symbolism gives the piece a different light. Curator: Indeed, it’s important to look at the era's social dynamics.