Cura Dei Pro Suis, from "Allegories of the Christian Faith, from Christian and Profane Allegories" 1560 - 1617

Editor: Here we have "Cura Dei Pro Suis, from Allegories of the Christian Faith, from Christian and Profane Allegories" made between 1560 and 1617, by Hendrick Goltzius. The work is executed in ink using engraving, drawing and printmaking. I am intrigued by the many narratives that are present in a single frame and by how they come together through line work. What can you tell me about the structure of this print? Curator: Focusing on the formal qualities, observe how Goltzius organizes the composition. Note the three distinct zones: a divine realm at the upper-left, a terrestrial scene to the lower and center, and bands of text forming a border. How do these separate yet connected areas inform the work’s meaning? Editor: I see what you mean. Each section holds figures or narratives and it gives it almost a three dimensional feel even if the picture is two dimensional. So the lines help the viewers follow the allegorical stories? Curator: Precisely. Examine the use of line—its varying weight and density. Notice how areas of deep shadow, achieved through cross-hatching, contrast with areas of lighter tone. How do these contrasts contribute to the overall visual impact and the legibility of the narratives within each zone? Editor: I also see it’s mostly just tonal work as there is just a lot of shades of black and white that are giving off certain emotions or the general vibe of the space that’s shown. This feels almost like three separate artworks in one unified piece. Thanks for helping me consider this artwork through its formal elements. Curator: Indeed, it is in analyzing these formal devices that we begin to understand the artistic choices and intended effects. This approach sharpens our perception of any artwork, enhancing our ability to interpret visual language.