Man in a Mantle Carrying a Stick c. 18th century

Editor: This etching, "Man in a Mantle Carrying a Stick" by Francesco Londonio, presents a figure leading sheep, a woman behind him carrying a child. What symbols do you see at play here? Curator: The staff, the mantle, the act of shepherding itself – these are all potent symbols of guidance and care. Can you think of cultural narratives where these symbols appear? Editor: Well, the Bible, of course. The shepherd as a protector... Curator: Exactly. Londonio taps into that deep-seated association. The mantle could represent both protection and a symbol of authority, maybe even religious devotion. How does it make you feel? Editor: It's interesting how these familiar symbols give the image an emotional weight. I didn't realize how much they were doing! Curator: Symbols have that power—carrying layers of meaning across time. Always ask yourself where an image borrows its strength from.