The Fall of Man c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Gerard de Lairesse's "The Fall of Man," a print housed at the Harvard Art Museums. There's a real sense of theatricality in Adam's pose, almost like he's been caught in a spotlight. What strikes you about this piece? Curator: It's fascinating how Lairesse stages this foundational narrative. The print enters into a long tradition of images debating the place of religious stories in public and private life. How does it reflect or challenge societal views on morality and temptation? Editor: Well, the figures are quite idealized, even in their moment of shame. Does that say something about the intended audience or the role of art at the time? Curator: Precisely! The idealization perhaps attempts to legitimize religious art during a period of rising skepticism towards religious institutions. Consider the political implications of visually representing moral choices. Food for thought, isn't it? Editor: It definitely is. I hadn't thought about it in terms of public image and political context. Thank you!