Reverend Van Allen 1920

Curator: This is John H. Garo's "Reverend Van Allen," currently housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm immediately struck by the somber tonality. Editor: Yes, the monochromatic palette certainly lends itself to a reading of solemnity and reverence. But notice how Garo uses light. Curator: Precisely! The chiaroscuro effect, the strong contrast, sculpts Van Allen's face, giving it a sculptural quality. I see integrity, perhaps even a hint of defiance. Editor: The cape reminds me of traditional symbols of power and authority, yet there's something quite vulnerable in his gaze. It feels very human, in spite of the clerical attire. Curator: I agree. The texture is so rich, especially in the dark clothing against the softer focus background. It’s all about visual weight and spatial relations. Editor: What I see here is a meditation on faith and humanity—a compelling portrait that reveals a complex individual behind the religious icon. Curator: A fascinating tension, indeed. Editor: It adds depth to a seemingly straightforward portrait.