Madonna of the Rosaries 17th-18th century

Editor: This is Robert van Auden-Aerd's "Madonna of the Rosaries," date unknown, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The overwhelming amount of figures creates such a sense of drama. How do you interpret the public role of a piece like this? Curator: It's interesting to consider how this print, given its subject matter, likely functioned. Religious imagery, especially depictions of the Madonna, played a crucial role in shaping social and cultural values. Consider the context, who do you think was the target audience for an image like this? Editor: Probably a religious order, or wealthy patrons? Curator: Exactly. This piece would reinforce faith and piety within specific social circles. The politics of imagery, especially religious imagery, are quite apparent. Editor: I hadn't thought about it that way. Thanks, that's a great perspective.