The Virgin and Child with Angels c. 1475

Editor: Here we have Benvenuto di Giovanni's "The Virgin and Child with Angels." I’m immediately drawn to the formality, the almost regal presentation. What’s your take on this piece? Curator: Well, consider the period. Religious art like this played a crucial public role. These images weren't just devotional; they reinforced social hierarchies. Do you notice the inscription at the base, “Ave Maris Stella”? Editor: Yes, it’s very prominent. Curator: Exactly. It directly links the image to established hymns and public rituals, creating an accessible message but within a very controlled, institutional framework. Editor: So, it's less about personal expression and more about social function? Curator: Precisely. It’s a powerful statement about the Church's role in daily life, using visual cues familiar to the audience. Editor: That's a fascinating way to look at it. I never thought about religious art in terms of social control before. Curator: And that's the beauty of art history; it gives us new lenses to see the world.