Latona and the Peasants of Lycia c. 1721

Editor: This is François Le Moyne's "Latona and the Peasants of Lycia," a drawing at the Harvard Art Museums. It feels very dynamic. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It's a potent scene, isn't it? The transformation myth depicted here, Latona's revenge against the peasants, speaks volumes about power dynamics. Consider the social hierarchy implicit in the story. Editor: Hierarchy? Curator: Absolutely. We have a goddess, a class of peasants, and their interactions resulting in divine punishment. It's a commentary on social insubordination and the consequences of disrespect towards authority. Editor: So, beyond the mythological narrative, it's about social control? Curator: Precisely. Le Moyne uses this story to explore the inherent tensions between the ruling class and the working class. Does that resonate with you? Editor: Definitely, it shifts my perspective on the artwork. Thanks! Curator: Mine too. Understanding the social context makes all the difference.