Sistine Madonna c. 19th century

Editor: So, this is "Sistine Madonna" by Moritz Steinla. The lack of bright colors really strikes me, it's all so muted and soft, but the figures feel really monumental. What do you see in it? Curator: Well, it’s a copy of a famous painting by Raphael. Consider the engraver’s choices here – to translate that color and drama into black and white, and still make it compelling. Do you feel that he succeeded? Editor: I think so. There's still so much emotional intensity in the figures' faces that comes across! Curator: Indeed, and that speaks volumes about the power of Raphael's original composition and Steinla's skill. It's like hearing a familiar melody played on a different instrument. Editor: I never thought about art copying in quite that way. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. It’s all about finding new layers within familiar masterpieces.