Shepherd and Peasant Woman with Sheep and Goats c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Pellegrino dal Colle's "Shepherd and Peasant Woman with Sheep and Goats", housed at the Harvard Art Museums. This sepia-toned print gives off a pastoral vibe, a sort of idealized countryside. What do you think about the message being communicated here? Curator: It’s interesting, isn't it? The piece whispers of simpler times, a romanticized view of rural life. Dal Colle invites us to ponder that old chestnut – are we truly happier in the fields than in the forum? Does a life amongst bleating sheep hold more contentment than one filled with bustling commerce? What do you think? Editor: That’s a good question…I hadn't considered the contrast. Curator: See? Art is a sneaky little question mark disguised as a pretty picture! It makes us think and feel, prodding our assumptions with a gentle, albeit sepia-toned, stick. Editor: I’ll have to remember that. Thanks, that was really helpful!