Holy Family c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have "Holy Family," a piece by Stefano Mulinari from the 18th century, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It has a very soft, sepia tone. What does it mean to you? Curator: You know, it feels like a whispered prayer, doesn't it? The Holy Family bathed in this honeyed light, cherubic clouds swirling above. Mulinari captures a tender moment, almost secretive. What do you feel looking at their gestures? Editor: I see a lot of reaching—for connection, maybe? Curator: Precisely. It's a dance of hands, isn't it? A yearning towards the divine, grounding it in the everyday miracle of family. It is a beautiful paradox. Editor: I see what you mean. There's more here than meets the eye. Curator: Absolutely. Art often unveils itself layer by layer, doesn't it?