Untitled c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have an undated, untitled engraving by Joseph Andrews, located in the Harvard Art Museums. It feels almost dreamlike with these figures emerging from the landscape. What do you see in this piece? Curator: The swirling composition, the figures nestled within, reminds me of illuminated manuscripts. It's calling to mind a symbolic narrative of protection and guidance, perhaps a religious story. Do you see any specific symbols that stand out to you? Editor: I notice the horse, perhaps representing strength, and what seems to be a woman and child. Is that something to do with Madonna iconography? Curator: It could be! The protective stance suggests maternal care, a theme deeply embedded in our cultural psyche. It makes me wonder, who were the audiences for such images, and what meanings did they derive? Editor: It's fascinating how these symbols speak to us, even across centuries. Curator: Exactly! The power of images lies in their enduring resonance and their capacity to evoke our shared cultural memory.