Heilige Franciscus ontvangt de stigmata c. 1592 - 1622

Editor: So, this is "Saint Francis Receiving the Stigmata," made with engraving, drawing, ink, and paper between 1592 and 1622, by Vespasiano Strada. It looks so detailed for its size. I'm intrigued by the medium. What's your perspective on this particular print? Curator: Well, looking at the lines and the clear depiction of cloth in Saint Francis’ robes, the production value is very striking, but what makes the art 'art' and the labour of production less significant? To examine it closely is to observe the labor, skill, and availability of material that are consumed. Editor: So you’re thinking about the resources needed to produce this artwork? Curator: Precisely! Think about the paper. It was quite valuable, also. The engraving process requires tools, training, and significant time. Who commissioned the piece and who was meant to own it? Consider the conditions and consumption surrounding production, since the material itself is only half the story. Editor: It makes me wonder if mass production made the individual value of artwork meaningless since engravings can have a large run printed. Curator: In some ways yes, and at the same time it creates more discussion as they end up being consumed widely, sometimes altering the social environment itself. What effect would the image of Saint Francis experiencing religious ecstacy have upon various populations across Europe? Editor: Interesting! Now I want to go do some research and find out the engraving’s provenance and social effect! Curator: Precisely, it is important to look beyond the face value of art. The more art produced, the more cultural commentary arises!