Paus Adriaan VI. - Geboren 1 Maart 1459, Overleden 14 September 1523 1850 - 1881

Curator: Dirk Noothoven van Goor created this engraving, a print entitled "Paus Adriaan VI. - Geboren 1 Maart 1459, Overleden 14 September 1523", sometime between 1850 and 1881. My first impression? The compositions seem fragmented but very detailed for its small scale. Editor: I find it somber. The dark, dense lines of the engraving create a serious tone, and the arrangement of scenes hints at a narrative, each acting like a symbolic "chapter" of a story. Curator: Indeed, consider the structural arrangement. We see four distinct panels. In the top left, Adriaan is in church as a child; on the top right, he is tutoring future emperor Charles V; in the lower left, he rejects being enthroned as Pope in favor of solemn assembly; and on the lower right, he gives alms to the poor. These discrete scenes together offer a compelling glimpse of an iconic subject's life and moral disposition. Editor: The church scene is particularly potent with symbolism. He is portrayed almost as a diminutive, even though this space looms large. It's archetypal. Adriaan seeks spiritual wisdom but the building represents power, maybe corruption. This creates immediate tension! Curator: One could argue his diminutive figure reflects a humble origin or his spiritual grounding. What do you make of the final image of Adriaan among the needy? Editor: That's very interesting! Giving away earthly things has dual meaning for medieval iconography: not only the material compassion of giving things to those in need, but the rejection of things, and embrace of heavenly glory! He’s shown surrounded by others, both receiving alms and blessing them as if performing a miracle. He doesn’t give silver, he gives blessing, and gives a symbolic connection with Heaven. Curator: Well considered! Van Goor’s approach skillfully integrates symbolism within formal restraint, adhering to a clearly ordered composition. The visual storytelling and careful construction highlight specific attributes in the story of Pope Adrian VI. Editor: I agree. By arranging these symbols, the artist lets viewers unpack a message about legacy, both secular and divine, which lingers long after we leave the image.