The Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew 1624

Curator: Oh, wow, it's a tough one. Ribera's *Martyrdom of Saint Bartholomew*… a truly raw depiction. Makes you almost wince, doesn't it? Editor: It does, yeah. I find myself needing to look away almost immediately. It has such a chilling, stark realism that kind of assaults your senses. Look how his executioners calmly proceed with their hideous task… I can almost feel the horror he must be experiencing. Curator: Ribera created this etching around 1624. The piece, held at the Met, illustrates the agonizing death of Saint Bartholomew, who, legend has it, was flayed alive. It shows Ribera grappling with the grand Baroque theme of martyrdom and sainthood through suffering. Editor: The saint’s face is heartbreaking, isn’t it? Even though his body is already in utter torment, his gaze is upwards, seemingly heavenward. Is it acceptance? Defiance? I see vulnerability but also something strong in him. Almost like forgiveness towards the men who are torturing him. Curator: You touch upon a significant part of Ribera's project, I think. His focus on the physicality of the body, especially in moments of intense suffering, aligns him with broader artistic and religious concerns of the Counter-Reformation. Ribera masterfully uses chiaroscuro to heighten the drama, pushing our gaze and accentuating emotional intensity. Think about the sociopolitical contexts in which such powerful imagery operated. Editor: Absolutely, the interplay of light and shadow definitely intensifies the horror and almost hypnotically captures your attention. I can only imagine the impact something this visceral had on society in the 17th century! It really seems that Ribera's use of etching helped to push a new artistic envelope during his time. Curator: Yes, etching and engraving enabled him to explore gradations of tone that heighten the impact. Well, seeing it this way, in person... It feels like one sees so much more of Ribera's intent in questioning ideas around institutional pain and devotion. Editor: For me, I'm reminded of how humans can somehow manage strength amidst extreme anguish. It might sound cliché, but perhaps it's that unwavering faith, or a glimmer of hope that makes it possible. The picture stays with you, even when you want to look away.