Protecting Angels c. 19th century

Editor: Edwin Roffe's print, "Protecting Angels," is so serene. The figures almost appear as a marble relief. What symbols stand out to you in this piece? Curator: The angels themselves. Notice the cultural persistence of winged figures as protectors. They echo classical depictions of Nike, the goddess of victory, yet also resonate with Christian iconography. The very idea of celestial guardians connects to deep-seated human desires for safety and guidance. Editor: So the wings aren't just decorative; they carry centuries of meaning? Curator: Precisely. And consider the archway. It frames the scene, invoking a sense of sacred space, a portal perhaps, reminding us of the liminal space between the earthly and the divine. What do you make of the children? Editor: They seem so vulnerable, emphasizing the need for protection. I never thought about how layered angelic imagery could be!