The Silence c. 19th century

Curator: Victor Dague's "The Silence," held here at the Harvard Art Museums, presents us with an intimate scene. What's your initial take on it? Editor: It evokes a hushed atmosphere, almost a sacred stillness, which I find interesting considering the power dynamics at play. Curator: Dague captures Mary signaling silence, while John the Baptist looks on at the sleeping Christ child. I see a very human moment, perhaps even a mother’s need for a little peace and quiet. Editor: Exactly! And the history of silencing women's voices—especially in religious contexts—adds another layer to this piece. Whose silence is truly being represented here? Curator: It's a thought-provoking point. Maybe Dague offers us not just a serene image, but also an invitation to question who gets to speak and who is asked to be silent. Editor: Precisely, sparking a much-needed conversation about power and representation. Curator: Art that makes us ponder, it lingers in the mind long after we've turned away. Editor: It certainly does. The silence speaks volumes.