Saint Pelagius the Pope c. 16th century

Curator: I'd like to introduce this anonymous woodcut, "Saint Pelagius the Pope," currently held in the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: It's stark and unsettling, isn't it? The sharp contrasts and dense imagery evoke a feeling of persecution and religious fervor. Curator: Absolutely. The print depicts scenes of Pelagius’s martyrdom, reflecting the violent religious and political climate of the era. The woodcut technique, with its bold lines, amplifies the drama. Editor: The symbolism is quite intense, too. The instruments of torture, the haloed figure—they all point to a narrative of suffering and ultimate sanctity. The composition is quite dramatic for a small image. Curator: And don't forget the historical context. These images often served as visual aids for religious teachings, reinforcing power structures and dictating acceptable forms of belief during widespread and often forced conversions. Editor: I appreciate how this examination of symbolism gives us a glimpse into the complex dynamics of faith and power. Curator: Indeed, the work invites us to consider the intersection of art, belief, and societal norms.