Annunciation c. 19th century

Editor: This is "Annunciation" by Achille Désiré Lefévre, here at the Harvard Art Museums. The black and white print has a very somber tone. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a visual representation of a pivotal moment, laden with socio-political implications regarding women's bodies. Mary's submission, depicted here, has historically been used to justify control over female agency. Editor: Control? How so? Curator: Consider how this image reinforces the idea of divine will dictating a woman's destiny, silencing her own desires and choices. Doesn't it also perpetuate a certain ideal of feminine purity and obedience? Editor: I never thought about it that way. It is a powerful reminder to question the narratives behind even the most revered images. Curator: Precisely. By interrogating these depictions, we can unpack the complex power dynamics they embody and challenge their continued influence.