La Fornarina c. 19th century

Curator: This is Luigi Boscolo's "La Fornarina," and it immediately strikes me as an intimate portrait, even though I know it's based on a Renaissance artwork. Editor: I feel the same. The original Renaissance painting is of course iconic, but this black and white recreation gives it such a different mood. Curator: It's fascinating how Boscolo uses this engraving to reframe ideas around beauty and classicism for a new audience. The title, "La Fornarina," refers to the subject's occupation. She was a baker! Editor: Yes, and it is thought she was Raphael's Roman lover. Curator: Right! So Boscolo gives a nod to this history but also presents a fresh lens through technique. It invites us to reflect on the role of women, artists, and the political power of imagery in art. Editor: Exactly. And ultimately, it reminds us how art can make us question assumptions and see with new eyes. Curator: Beautifully put.