Achim and Amminadab c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Domenico Cunego's "Achim and Amminadab," housed in the Harvard Art Museums. The figures are rendered in such fine detail; what meanings do you find embedded in these depictions? Curator: Note how Achim is depicted as contemplative and alert, while Amminadab seems withdrawn, shielding himself. These postures are visual shorthand for different approaches to faith and tradition. Do you see a connection to similar imagery in other works? Editor: I hadn't thought of it that way, but now I see a possible dialogue between activity and contemplation. Curator: Exactly. It shows how artists use familiar visual language to explore and reinforce cultural narratives. We carry these symbols with us, even unconsciously. Editor: That's fascinating. I'll definitely look at art differently now.