Christ before Annas c. 17th century

Editor: This is Claudine Bouzonnet Stella's "Christ before Annas," a 17th-century print at the Harvard Art Museums. The drama is palpable! What strikes me is the stark contrast in textures, from the smooth robes to the rough weapons. What do you make of this piece? Curator: As a materialist, I see this print as a product of its time. Consider the copperplate engraving process: a skilled artisan meticulously transferring an image, participating in a form of labor tied to religious patronage and the art market. How does its reproducibility affect its value? Editor: I guess it democratizes the image, making it accessible beyond an elite audience, but perhaps it cheapens the artistic skill involved? Curator: Precisely. And think about the paper itself, its sourcing, and its role in disseminating ideologies. It’s all intertwined! Editor: That gives me a lot to think about regarding access and artistic labour. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure, I'm glad I could help you see the labor behind the work.