Saint Augustine 1660

Editor: Here we have Claude Mellan's "Saint Augustine," held at the Harvard Art Museums. The etching's stark lines give it such a raw, contemplative feel. What do you see in this piece, beyond the saint's obvious piety? Curator: Oh, but the piety *is* the point, isn't it? Mellan's hatching isn't just technique; it's Augustine's internal struggle made visible. The way light seems to emanate from him suggests divine inspiration. It’s almost as if the light is pushing through, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: I do see that. The detail, especially in the landscape, underscores that almost theatrical lighting on Augustine. So, he's not just repenting, he's illuminated, literally and figuratively. Curator: Exactly. Mellan captures that transformative moment, making us ponder our own paths to enlightenment. Editor: Well, I hadn't thought of it that way, but it adds a whole new dimension to my understanding.