The millstone cast into the sea c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have Hans Holbein the Younger’s woodcut, "The millstone cast into the sea.” Editor: Wow, it's intense! All that fire and brimstone makes it feel like a scene ripped straight from a nightmare. Curator: Absolutely. Holbein utilizes potent symbolism. The angel hurling the millstone into the sea signifies the ultimate destruction of Babylon, a major symbol of corruption in the Book of Revelation. Editor: The figures in the foreground, witnessing the destruction, seem so helpless, almost resigned. It gives you this feeling of inevitable doom. What do you make of the millstone as the destructive instrument? Curator: The millstone itself bears a heavy weight of symbolism. It signifies the ceaseless grind of earthly life, now violently interrupted by divine intervention. Editor: Makes you think about what foundations we build our lives upon, doesn't it? Powerful stuff. Curator: Indeed, it's a stark reminder of the transience of earthly power. Editor: So true; Holbein’s dark vision really sticks with you.