Mater Amabilis c. 19th century

Curator: This is Ignazio Pavon's "Mater Amabilis," housed right here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Immediately, I'm struck by the use of light and shadow. It's almost chiaroscuro, guiding your eye around the composition. Curator: The title translates to "lovable mother" and really speaks to the pervasive archetype of the Madonna in Western art – one that's been used to uphold ideals of femininity and motherhood. Editor: Indeed, but look closer at the drapery. The lines, the flow - it’s almost sculptural in its rendering, creating a sense of volume and weight. Curator: Certainly, and this engraving exists within a larger history of religious imagery, often serving as a tool for shaping cultural and religious values, particularly concerning women’s roles. Editor: But consider the formal mastery – the tonal gradations, the precise linework – all working in harmony to create a serene and almost ethereal presence. Curator: Perhaps, and re-examining these representations allows us to consider how such ideals have impacted the lived experiences of women throughout history. Editor: I see what you mean, and it still remains an image of profound visual impact.