Martyrdom of Saint Stephen c. 17th century

Curator: This is Gérard Audran’s “Martyrdom of Saint Stephen,” held here at the Harvard Art Museums. It depicts the stoning of Saint Stephen. Editor: Wow, it’s intense! The chaotic energy of the figures below contrasts so sharply with the serene image of Christ floating above. Curator: Exactly. The positioning of Christ above, coupled with the earthly violence below, speaks volumes about the ideological justifications for such acts throughout history. Editor: It's like the artist wants us to reflect on how power and belief intertwine. It’s visually stunning but deeply disturbing. Curator: The composition does draw us into that tension, forcing a dialogue between the earthly and the divine, the personal and the political. Editor: Makes you wonder how narratives are crafted to justify actions, doesn't it? Curator: Precisely. This image prompts a deeper look at the interplay of faith, power, and historical violence. Editor: Definitely leaves you with a lot to ponder, even beyond its beauty.