Annunciation with Prophets 1571

Editor: Here we have Cornelis Cort's "Annunciation with Prophets," made sometime in the 16th century. The density of figures and the intricate detail are really striking. How can we interpret the piece through the lens of its production and materials? Curator: Consider the labor involved in creating this detailed engraving. Each line was carefully etched, requiring significant skill and time. Think about the social context: Who commissioned it, and what materials were accessible to them? Editor: It's amazing to think about the repetitive labor involved. The finished product almost obscures that. Curator: Exactly! By focusing on the process, we uncover the economic and social relationships embedded in the work, and we begin to understand what forces were driving its production. Editor: I never thought about it that way before. Thanks!