Large Rocky Landscape (with Flight into Egypt) c. 17th century

Curator: This etching is called Large Rocky Landscape (with Flight into Egypt), made by Jacques Prou, who lived from 1640 to 1686. It’s held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It feels almost like a stage set, this landscape—everything's composed so precisely. And look at the density of the etched lines, giving us deep blacks and subtle gradations. Curator: The Flight into Egypt, that small scene, serves as a powerful symbol of refuge and the journey to find safety. The detailed landscape speaks to spiritual yearning. Editor: But look at the sheer amount of labor involved in creating such a complex etching. It's a testament to the skilled artisans of the time, producing these images for wider consumption. Curator: Yes, an amazing combination of natural beauty and human drama all in one. Editor: It really makes you think about the collaborative effort that goes into artistic production, doesn’t it?