Judith with the Head of Holofernes, after Mantegna 19th-20th century

Editor: This is Emily Winthrop Miles' "Judith with the Head of Holofernes, after Mantegna," a striking drawing held here at the Harvard Art Museums. The composition and tonality feel very classical, but I'm curious about the source material it references. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Observe how Miles meticulously replicates Mantegna's style, focusing on line and form. The cross-hatching creates depth, emphasizing the figures' musculature and drapery. Note also the artist's attention to the textural contrast between flesh and fabric, isn't it? Editor: Yes, the fabric does seem to have such attention to detail. So the artist primarily seeks to duplicate, celebrate, and call attention to form in this work, as opposed to narrative? Curator: Precisely. The artist is not as interested in the storytelling aspect as they are in the formal qualities of the work. Editor: I see now, thank you. It's fascinating to consider how an artist might prioritize form over narrative in their work. Curator: Indeed, and it is through this formal lens that we truly appreciate the artist's skill and intention.