Temptation of Saint Anthony c. 19th century

Curator: This is "The Temptation of Saint Anthony," an engraving by a Mr. Timms, housed right here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: Whew, it's got that old-timey horror movie vibe, doesn't it? I mean, bats, skulls, and a dude trying to read his way out of… whatever *that* is. Curator: Indeed! The visual language pulls from a long tradition of depicting Anthony’s struggles. See how the grotesque figures are meant to embody the temptations that plagued him? Editor: Totally. It's a snapshot of inner turmoil made monstrous. Like a bad dream you can't shake, projected onto reality. Curator: And note the prominent placement of religious symbols: the crucifix, the book. All meant to reinforce the saint's spiritual defenses. Editor: It's like he's trying to build a fortress of faith around himself. I wonder if he ever just wanted to yell, "Leave me alone!"? Curator: Perhaps. This piece reminds us that temptation and faith are timeless opponents locked in an eternal struggle within us all. Editor: Yeah, it's a little intense. I need a cappuccino after that.