Four Fathers of the Church c. 17th century

Editor: This print, "Four Fathers of the Church," by Cornelis Galle the Elder, presents a gathering of ecclesiastical figures. I am curious about the visual and symbolic significance of grouping these figures together. What's your take? Curator: Grouping the Church Fathers visually reinforces the idea of doctrinal authority and continuity. The arrangement would have served a didactic function, asserting the Church’s historical foundations during periods of religious and political upheaval, such as the Reformation. Who was the audience for such imagery? Editor: So, it’s like a visual argument for the Church's legitimacy? I hadn't considered the political context so directly. Thanks! Curator: Exactly! Considering the socio-political forces helps us understand the public role this print played.