Death of Saint Anthony 1649

Editor: Here we have Pieter Clouet's "Death of Saint Anthony," currently undated, at the Harvard Art Museums. The scene feels intensely intimate, like a private moment made public. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a complex depiction of power and vulnerability. Saint Anthony, a figure of spiritual authority, is rendered entirely dependent on the ministrations of others. Who controls the narrative here, and whose gaze are we invited to adopt? Editor: That's interesting, I hadn't considered the power dynamics so explicitly. So, the way Clouet portrays St. Anthony raises questions about authority? Curator: Precisely. Is it reverence, or is there a subtle commentary on the dependence inherent in even the most revered figures? Also consider the male gaze. Editor: I see. I'll definitely look at the artwork with those points in mind. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure!