Group of Horsemen at the Right of Raphael's Fresco "Pope Leo Stopping Attila," in the Sala D'Eliodoro c. 16th century

Curator: This drawing at the Harvard Art Museums, titled "Group of Horsemen at the Right of Raphael's Fresco 'Pope Leo Stopping Attila'," presents a dynamic scene. Editor: The sepia tones lend a sense of antiquity. The composition, with its layered figures, evokes a feeling of overwhelming force. Curator: Given its connection to Raphael's fresco, it's fascinating to consider the political and religious contexts shaping the Renaissance papacy and its representations of power. Editor: Notice how the artist uses line and shadow to convey movement. The foreshortening of the horses and riders is quite striking. Curator: Absolutely. The image speaks to themes of conflict and authority. Whose narratives are being amplified here, and whose are being marginalized? Editor: The visual rhythm, almost a staccato of hooves and trumpets, emphasizes the drama of the moment. A fitting visual prelude, wouldn't you agree? Curator: I suppose in a way it is. It has certainly given me some food for thought. Editor: And me a deeper appreciation for the artist’s skillful rendering of form.