Christophorus Columbus 1894 - 1959

Curator: Here we have a work by Gordinne, titled "Christophorus Columbus," created between 1894 and 1959. It's currently held in the Rijksmuseum, rendered as a print or drawing. What strikes you first about this piece? Editor: It’s like flipping through the abridged version of history as a quirky comic strip! The vignettes give it this playful feel, but I’m getting strong storybook vibes, even with the slightly satirical edge. Curator: The narrative aspect is key here, distilling a life and a historical moment into accessible scenes. The imagery surrounding Columbus throughout—maps, ships, and the meeting of different cultures—speaks to an era of exploration, of course, but also of encounter and conquest, the meeting of 'us' and 'them.' Editor: Exactly! It is a weird blend. I'm especially interested in the Queen’s body language: something is tense between generosity, skepticism, and pure self-interest. You almost don’t notice it but then you start suspecting her every glance. The details draw you in! Curator: Consider the clothing: there is something there as well. Columbus wears attire marking him as a distinguished person, even if other people's clothing is less distinguished. Editor: Yes, and notice how it plays out over several panels; even if all figures wear the same colours or types of clothing, you still get that subtle change, and some cultural tensions are being signalled right under your nose... almost to create sympathy towards Columbus for all the hurdles he faces. Curator: It reflects, I think, a cultural memory that's been simplified and somewhat sanitized. The romantic view of Columbus the hero has dominated how we have viewed him historically; now he's something else, maybe. Editor: Ultimately, I'm charmed by the sketchiness. It reminds me that even grand historical narratives start with an individual vision, even the first pencil stroke. Curator: Precisely. There is so much loaded into one drawing, really calling to attention so many ideas surrounding cultural exchange.