Guardian Angel c. 17th century

Editor: This tiny print, Jacques Callot's *Guardian Angel*, is so delicate. I’m struck by how the angel seems to be intervening in the child's path. What do you make of it? Curator: Consider the Counter-Reformation context. Visual imagery played a crucial role in reinforcing Catholic doctrine. This image functions almost as propaganda, doesn't it? Editor: Propaganda? I hadn’t thought of it that way. Curator: Absolutely. The angel actively shields the child, visually asserting the Church’s claim to protect its followers from earthly dangers. Think of the power dynamics at play here. Editor: So, it's not just a comforting image, but a statement about institutional authority. I see it differently now. Curator: Exactly. It's a reminder that art serves varied public roles.