Adolescence of the Virgin c. 18th century

Curator: Jacques Bouillard, born in 1744, created this piece, "Adolescence of the Virgin." It's an engraving, offering a glimpse into the Virgin Mary's youth. Editor: It's lovely, really. There's a quiet, almost contemplative mood that washes over me. The sepia tones are soft. Curator: The artwork speaks to the idealized vision of femininity prevalent in the 18th century, situated within patriarchal religious frameworks. Editor: I wonder what she’s reading? Is it a love letter, maybe? Or a recipe for heavenly bread? Curator: The act of reading itself was, at the time, a symbol of privilege and access to knowledge, often gendered and classed. Editor: These little cherubs are really sweet. Like chubby, winged ideas floating around her head. Curator: Indeed, they might represent innocence, divine inspiration, or even the expectations placed upon her. It's a complex piece reflecting societal norms. Editor: It's got a beautiful kind of stillness, I think I would like to sit with that feeling for a while.