Madonna Lifting the Veil from the Sleeping Child c. 17th century

Curator: I’m struck by the tenderness in this image, “Madonna Lifting the Veil from the Sleeping Child,” a print by François de Poilly the Elder. It reminds me of half-forgotten lullabies. Editor: The composition certainly directs our gaze—the Madonna’s arm leads us directly to the child, while the veil itself acts as a liminal space, a boundary between waking and dreaming. Curator: The details! The crown atop Mary's head juxtaposed with the sleeping babe, the ruins in the background… it's a dance of earthly power and divine innocence, isn’t it? Editor: The somber background emphasizes the idealized form of the Madonna and Child. And look at the texture Poilly achieves, the subtle gradations suggesting soft flesh, flowing fabric. Curator: It’s funny, I feel this pull toward the sweetness of motherhood and this gentle protection, and yet the formal analysis deepens the mystery so much. Editor: Precisely, that's the beauty of form—it guides emotion, but always leaves space for personal interpretation.