Annunciation 1513

Curator: This is Albrecht Altdorfer’s “Annunciation,” a woodcut housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first thought? Wow, it's moody. The angel feels immense, almost bursting out of the tiny domestic scene. Curator: Altdorfer lived through the Reformation, so this piece reflects a time when religious imagery was fraught with political implications. Woodcuts allowed art to be more accessible. Editor: It’s interesting how the angel dominates, almost eclipsing Mary. Usually, the focus is much more on her reaction. I can almost feel the goosebumps from such an overwhelming visitation. Curator: Exactly! It demonstrates art’s power to disseminate ideas and, perhaps, challenge established narratives. Editor: It really makes you consider the raw emotional impact of such a pivotal moment, away from the stained-glass gloss. Curator: I agree, and it serves as a reminder that art isn’t just about aesthetics; it's about how we interpret and engage with the world around us.