S. Andrew c. 18th century

Editor: So, here we have Johann Georg Bergmüller's "S. Andrew." It's a striking engraving of Saint Andrew from around the 18th century, and I’m really drawn to the intensity of his gaze. What stands out to you? Curator: This image reflects the Church's role in shaping identities and power dynamics, especially the subjugation of the individual to religious authority. Notice how Andrew's upward gaze and the hand emerging from the heavens visually reinforce hierarchical structures. What does this suggest about the artist’s view of religious institutions? Editor: It suggests they were maybe reinforcing that power structure themselves? It's fascinating to see how those power dynamics play out even in a single image. Curator: Exactly. Art isn't just about aesthetics; it’s a historical document reflecting its time's societal norms and struggles for power.