The Fall of Man (obverse), The Crucifixion (reverse) 1536

Curator: This small, double-sided medal by Hans Reinhart the Elder shows "The Fall of Man" on one side and "The Crucifixion" on the other. What strikes you first? Editor: The sheer density of detail on such a tiny surface. It's like holding an entire epic poem in the palm of your hand. Curator: Absolutely. Reinhart really packed these scenes. Think of the cultural weight loaded into these images. Adam and Eve, the forbidden fruit, the crucifixion… Editor: The Fall always gets me, it's a recurring theme in art. It's our shared origin story of loss, of innocence lost, of our disconnect. Curator: And on the reverse, Christ's sacrifice offering redemption from that very fall. It's a powerful pairing. What do you make of the artistry here? Editor: The craftsmanship is stunning. The tiny figures, the expressive faces despite the scale... Reinhart was clearly a master of miniature storytelling. It's a beautiful object of contemplation, a reminder of life's big questions nestled into a small form. Curator: A tangible memento mori. Editor: Yes, exactly. Such small yet profound.