Judgment of Solomon c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Judgment of Solomon" by Gérard Audran, currently at the Harvard Art Museums. It depicts a very dramatic scene filled with figures. What strikes me most is how the artist captured the tension and emotion in everyone's faces. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Oh, this is where art meets biblical drama, isn't it? Notice how Audran uses light to spotlight the key players – Solomon, of course, but also the two mothers and the poor, contested baby. It's like a stage play, wouldn't you agree? The details in the columns also give a sense of granduer befitting a king. How does that impact the drama for you? Editor: It definitely amplifies the importance of the decision about to be made, giving it the gravity it deserves. It shows the power of Solomon, really. I hadn't noticed that before. Curator: Exactly! And that's how art whispers secrets if you lend an ear and an eye.