Felicity of the Blessed, Ceiling of the Church of Val-de-Grâce, Paris 1693

Curator: Gerard Audran's "Felicity of the Blessed," a rendering of the ceiling of Val-de-Grâce, presents us with a swirling panorama of figures ascending to heaven. Editor: It's like a visual symphony, isn't it? A whole host of celestial beings, all caught in this dynamic, upward rush! Curator: Indeed. The print, measuring over a meter in diameter, offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic processes of disseminating large-scale architectural painting. Engravings like these made art accessible. Editor: Absolutely! I'm imagining the artisan bent over the printing press, replicating this heavenly scene, democratizing the divine, in a way. Curator: These engravings put high art into the hands of a wider audience, transforming consumption and notions of artistic value. Editor: And what a vision to contemplate! The sheer optimism...it's a little dizzying, but in the best way! Curator: It is fascinating to examine how the materiality of the print, paper and ink, transformed the experience of the original work. Editor: Yes, a new context. I find the print offers a quieter meditation than the church ceiling itself—a chance to reflect on what it means to be blessed.