Saint Hilarion brings a Child back to life c. 15th century

Curator: The scene we're looking at depicts Saint Hilarion bringing a child back to life. It's an anonymous work housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: I’m immediately struck by the simplicity of the composition. The linework feels so direct, almost childlike in its rendering. Curator: Its directness lends itself to understanding the social and religious framework in which images like this were circulated. Miracles were powerful endorsements of faith. Editor: Exactly! But thinking about it now, the mother's pose…is she thankful or just resigned? It brings up so many questions about women's agency, even in moments of apparent miraculous intervention. Curator: It’s a reminder how images, even devotional ones, carry multiple layers of meaning and, perhaps, unintended social commentary. Editor: I appreciate the reminder that even images of faith can invite us to ponder issues of power, gender, and hope in the world.