Entombment c. 19th century

Curator: We’re looking at Samuel Amsler's "Entombment," held here at the Harvard Art Museums. It presents a somber, sacred scene. Editor: My first impression is that it’s heavy, draped in grief. The stark contrasts seem to carve the figures from the paper itself. Curator: Indeed, note how Amsler uses the formal elements to construct a narrative of suffering. The composition focuses on diagonals, emphasizing the body's descent. Editor: It’s all about the play of light and shadow, like a stage production. Even though the moment is about death, there’s a strange sort of grace. Curator: The engraving technique itself lends to the emotional weight, each line meticulously placed to create volume and texture. Editor: I suppose that is why I see it as a very delicate piece, even though it speaks of such pain. Curator: Precisely, Samuel Amsler’s work reveals much about structure and composition in art. Editor: And I am reminded that even in darkness, there can be found light, hope, and beauty.