The Holy Family c. 17th century

Curator: This is Bernardino Curti’s "The Holy Family," a piece residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. I find the composition quite striking. Editor: Yes, it has a certain weight to it, doesn't it? The stark contrast immediately suggests a narrative of hardship and resilience. Curator: The etching itself, with its deliberate lines, contributes to that feeling. The figures, set against this stark landscape, feel both vulnerable and timeless. Editor: Notice how Mary’s gesture almost cradles the Christ Child, but also presents Him, as if aware of His future. And Joseph's gaze, a mixture of protectiveness and awe. The iconography of the family unit is certainly potent here. Curator: Absolutely. And the landscape itself—this rugged, almost barren space—serves as a symbolic backdrop, speaking to the human condition, our struggles and our hopes. Editor: It's remarkable how Curti uses form and shadow to convey such complex emotions. A masterclass in visual storytelling. Curator: Indeed. It leaves you contemplating the enduring power of family and faith, doesn't it? Editor: It does. A potent image that persists across time.