Scene Four c. 17th century

Curator: Welcome! We are looking at Johanna Sibylla Kraus’ print, "Scene Four," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It’s incredibly dramatic, almost theatrical. The stark contrast and the sheer number of figures create a sense of overwhelming grief. Curator: Absolutely. The etching technique allows for those fine, precise lines that emphasize the textures of the clothing and the rough rock of the cave. Editor: The cave itself! It immediately conjures images of entombment, of the cyclical nature of life and death, a frequent theme in religious art. Curator: And the composition leads our eye directly to the figure being presented. Note the labor involved in creating such details. Editor: It's a powerful image, laden with religious symbolism. Curator: Indeed. A great piece for considering craft and context. Editor: A moment of solemn reflection.