Assumption of the Virgin c. 19th century

Editor: This is Antonio Ricciani's "Assumption of the Virgin," created sometime between 1775 and 1847, here at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a black and white print and it feels... heavenly. What do you see in the tonal gradations? Curator: Observe how the artist utilizes contrasting values to generate a sense of depth. Note the strategic placement of the Virgin at the converging point of the composition. Editor: It seems to have a very dynamic visual language. How does the artist build up the composition? Curator: The artist manipulates the composition to create a vortex, drawing the viewer's eye upwards, further enhanced by the contrast between light and shadow. The angels frame her, amplifying her ascendance. Editor: That’s fascinating. I never would have thought about the ascending effect of the work. Curator: By focusing on the formal elements, we can begin to understand the artist's intention and message.