The Chaste Susanna c. 18th century

Curator: Looking at this intense scene, my first thought is: drama! It’s so theatrical, almost like a stage play frozen in time. Editor: Indeed. This is "The Chaste Susanna" by Ephraim Gottlieb Krüger, who lived from 1756 to 1834. The scene depicts Susanna, falsely accused by elders after she refused their advances. Curator: The lighting, it’s so sharp, carving out these figures. You can almost feel the weight of the accusation pressing down on her. Editor: Absolutely. Krüger’s piece brings forth questions around the male gaze, particularly in historical and religious contexts. Susanna's virtue becomes a battleground. Curator: It makes you wonder, what does it really mean to be ‘chaste’ in a world rigged against women? Editor: Precisely. The power dynamics are stark, even centuries later. Curator: Well, I'm certainly left with a lot to think about, especially regarding the portrayal, and endurance, of these themes. Editor: As am I, about how we continue to grapple with the distortions of power and virtue.