Ceiling Decoration c. 18th century

Curator: This is a ceiling decoration attributed to the school of Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels light, airy, almost like a fleeting dream rendered in monochrome. The figures float so effortlessly. Curator: The allegorical figures and putti are typical of the period, evoking themes of prosperity and virtue often commissioned by wealthy patrons. Think of the political messaging at play. Editor: Absolutely. And the orb held aloft, the laurel wreath... these symbols speak to power, achievement, and divine favor that were foundational to such artwork. Curator: Indeed. The art itself functioned as a sort of aspiration advertisement for the elite. Editor: It's fascinating how these images, even in sketch form, continue to echo with symbolic intent across centuries.