Annunciation 17th-18th century

Curator: This is "Annunciation" by Robert van Auden-Aerd, residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's overwhelmingly Baroque, isn’t it? The sheer number of cherubic faces… Curator: Indeed. The dove, representing the Holy Spirit, descends upon Mary as the angel Gabriel announces her destiny. Note how the lilies symbolize purity. Editor: I'm fascinated by how these Annunciation scenes reflected and reinforced societal expectations for women, their roles, their perceived purity. It's an image loaded with the weight of centuries. Curator: The contrast between light and shadow accentuates the gravity of the moment, doesn't it? The composition guides our eyes to Mary’s reaction, a blend of surprise and acceptance. Editor: Yes, although acceptance might be a post-hoc reading, an imposition by the powerful… Curator: A perspective to ponder, for sure. Van Auden-Aerd masterfully captures a pivotal moment, interpreted and re-interpreted through different lenses.