The Catholic Mass 

Fyodor Bronnikov painted this scene of a Catholic Mass, using oil on canvas, a very traditional medium at the time. But consider for a moment, the making of those plain-weave fabrics we see in the clothing of the assembly. Look at how Bronnikov captures their weight and drape. These were produced by many hands, starting with cultivation of flax or cotton, through spinning, weaving, and eventually tailoring. And what about the pigments, sourced from minerals, plants, or even insects, then ground and mixed with oil? Bronnikov has represented the labor of countless individuals, essential to the rituals of this community. There’s also a broader social context to consider. Bronnikov, a Russian artist, painted this scene of Catholic worship in Italy. His approach reflects a critical, ethnographic eye. It's a glimpse into the religious practices of a specific group of people, with emphasis on their material culture. So, when we look at this painting, let's appreciate it not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its depiction of the collaborative, material world.