The Triumph of Christ 1807

Curator: Here we have John Flaxman's "The Triumph of Christ." It's an engraving, and the image itself measures 135 by 190 millimeters. Editor: It feels ethereal, almost dreamlike. The figures seem to float, and the lines are so delicate. Curator: Flaxman was deeply involved with neoclassical ideals. The image reflects a desire to emulate classical purity and form. He produced these engravings for editions of Homer and Dante. Editor: There's definitely a sense of idealized beauty, but I'm also struck by the hierarchical composition and the celebration of power within religious institutions. Who is included and who is left out of this "triumph?" Curator: Absolutely. Examining the historical context shows us that religious imagery during this period was a powerful tool for social control. Editor: It invites us to consider the relationship between art, power, and belief, even today. Curator: Indeed, it leaves me pondering the ongoing tension between religious narratives and social justice.