Our Lady of the Dry Tree 1450

Editor: Petrus Christus's *Our Lady of the Dry Tree,* dating from about 1450, made with oil and tempera, has such a unique composition. Mary stands so still, and the stark branches behind her give it such an eerie, almost surreal feel. What are your thoughts? How do you read this unusual arrangement? Curator: Oh, that "eerie" feeling is spot on! To me, that stark, leafless tree buzzing with golden "A"s represents the lineage of Mary, a sort of visual family tree if you will, leading to the "Ave Maria," Hail Mary. It's not just any tree, is it? It is very dry! I think Christus is reflecting on this moment before the promise of spring, that anticipation that precedes salvation. It's a painting pregnant with expectation, don’t you think? I’d say it's a meditation on hope found even in what seems barren. Editor: Hope in barrenness - that’s beautifully put! I initially focused on the austerity, the apparent lack. Those golden 'A's felt almost ornamental, not as symbols of lineage or promise. Now I'm starting to see it the way you see it; a symbol of faith as we look into the unknown, to something new is on the way. Curator: Exactly! Art, like life, often whispers its secrets if we only listen with a patient ear – or in this case, a patient eye. See, now the painting feels different, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely. It has moved away from an eery composition, to me. Thank you! It’s hopeful. Curator: The pleasure was all mine. It is always amazing how a bit of context helps you view a work from a completely fresh perspective!