Assumption of the Virgin 1729 - 1749

Editor: This is Paul-Ponce-Antoine Robert's "Assumption of the Virgin," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The warmth of the colors gives it such a dreamy, otherworldly feel. What strikes you most about this work? Curator: It’s interesting, isn’t it? The swirling figures seem caught between earth and heaven. The artist uses line and color to create movement, drawing our eyes upward. Do you feel a sense of ascent when you view it? Editor: I do, definitely. It's like she's floating! All the angels seem to lift her. Curator: Exactly! And notice how the light almost embraces her? It's as if divine grace itself is lifting her towards the heavens. A real feast for the eyes and the soul, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely. I see the "Assumption" in a totally new light now!