Martyrdom of Saint Stephen 18th-19th century

Editor: Here we have Robert Dunkarton's "Martyrdom of Saint Stephen," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It really has a sobering mood. What do you see in this piece that maybe I'm missing? Curator: Well, the way Dunkarton captures the emotional chaos, it's really intense. But have you noticed how some figures look upward? What do you suppose they're looking at? It almost gives me chills! Editor: Maybe they're seeing a divine presence? It's like a moment of hope amidst the violence. Curator: Exactly! It’s that tension between earthly suffering and spiritual hope that makes this so powerful. I hadn't noticed that before. Thanks! Editor: It's interesting how art can make us feel the weight of history, isn't it? Curator: Absolutely! It sticks with you.