Saints Thrysus amd Callinicus c. 17th century

Editor: This is Jacques Callot's "Saints Thrysus and Callinicus," a small etching. It depicts two figures being tortured. I'm struck by how matter-of-fact the scene appears, despite its violence. How might the historical context influence our interpretation of this piece? Curator: Given Callot's era, the print likely functioned as a tool for religious instruction, reminding viewers of the cost of faith during periods of persecution. Consider how the format, a small, reproducible print, served to disseminate these stories widely and reinforce specific ideologies. Does that shift your initial perception? Editor: It does. Knowing it was for religious instruction, I see now how it might be used to inspire faith in the face of hardship. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, thinking about the audience and function gives us a new lens.