Jonah Under the Gourd c. 1585

Curator: This is Anton Wierix II’s engraving, “Jonah Under the Gourd,” held in the Harvard Art Museums. I see it as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and its intersection with faith and identity. Editor: My eyes are drawn to the colors—the rich blues and reds juxtaposed against the earthy tones of the landscape, that evoke a sense of biblical drama. The materials have aged gracefully; the paper, the ink, all bearing the marks of time, which add layers to its narrative. Curator: I think the placement of Jonah, caught between divine intervention and earthly consequence, speaks to the broader social and political tensions of the time, interrogating themes of obedience, resistance, and redemption. Editor: And the method of engraving would've required skilled labor and precision, highlighting the value placed on craftsmanship in disseminating religious narratives in print. Curator: True, this artwork really exemplifies how artistic expression can serve as a conduit for exploring complex human experiences. Editor: I agree; it's a small piece, but rich with history and materiality.