Madonna and Child with Saint Elizabeth and Saint John c. 19th century

Curator: This is George Jakob Felsing’s "Madonna and Child with Saint Elizabeth and Saint John", housed right here at the Harvard Art Museums. What strikes you first? Editor: Well, apart from its serenity, the imagery is so potent. The lamb, of course, symbolizes innocence, the child Saint John with his cross foreshadows sacrifice. Curator: Yes! The painting’s symbolism speaks volumes. I see tenderness, but also a hint of melancholy, knowing the children's fates. Editor: I agree. The setting, too, with those crumbling ruins in the background, hints at the transience of worldly things. It's like a visual memento mori. Curator: It's fascinating how Felsing has packed so much narrative into a single, still moment. Editor: Exactly, it's a beautiful meditation on faith, motherhood, and mortality. Curator: Indeed, a powerful piece to reflect on.