Christ Washing the Apostles' Feet c. 17th century

Curator: This is Claudine Bouzonnet Stella's "Christ Washing the Apostles' Feet," held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's quite dramatic, even austere. The stark contrast of light and shadow amplifies the emotional weight of the scene. Curator: Absolutely. Stella, who lived from 1636 to 1697, worked during a period where the Catholic Church used art to reinforce its doctrines. This work exemplifies the humility and service central to Christian teachings. Editor: The composition is compelling. The artist masterfully uses a central candelabra to draw the eye and unify the scene. The figures seem to emerge from the darkness. Curator: Consider the social implications of this image. In a hierarchical society, Christ's act was revolutionary, challenging established norms of power and status. Editor: True, and I can see how Stella highlights this through the stark contrast between the divine act and earthly setting. The textures, rendered with such precision, emphasize the humanity in this sacred space. Curator: Seeing it now, understanding Stella's historical context enriches my appreciation for her defiance of societal norms through her art. Editor: And focusing on the visual elements, like the careful arrangement of figures, shows how Stella directs our gaze and deepens our emotional investment in this story.