Christ Entombed 17th-18th century

Curator: This is Gaspard Duchange's "Christ Entombed," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a piece that immediately strikes you with its somber mood, wouldn't you agree? The stark contrasts and almost theatrical lighting really amplify the drama. Editor: Yes, but it's the labor involved in producing such an image that I find compelling. Consider the engraver's skill, the tools employed, and the socio-economic systems that supported its creation and circulation. Curator: Of course, the materiality is undeniable; however, look at the angel’s pose and the Virgin's expression. It’s a visual representation of grief, carefully constructed through line and form. Editor: And these forms reflect the consumption patterns of the elite. The reproduction speaks to the commodification of religious imagery. Curator: Indeed, but the engraver transforms the source into something new. It gives this a unique presence that speaks to a new sensibility. Editor: Absolutely, and investigating its means of production gives us further insight into its message and enduring appeal.