The Virgin of Seville c. 19th century

Curator: Oh, my! It feels like a heavenly dream floating on a cloud right out of a fairytale! Editor: Indeed. This is Marin Lavigne's "The Virgin of Seville", now residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. It's an intricate image, full of symbolism and layered meanings. Curator: The angels above really caught my eye! I wonder, do they represent divine protection, or are they more about the artist's longing for something greater? Editor: Angels, of course, traditionally symbolize divine messengers, and here, their sheer number conveys the Virgin's importance. You can also see echoes of salvation and sacrifice through the presentation of the lamb. Curator: I see that. The lamb is such a powerful, poignant symbol in this piece. It's all about the eternal, isn’t it? Editor: Absolutely. It encapsulates faith, purity, and the promise of redemption. Lavigne masterfully employs these visual cues. Curator: This piece is so intriguing; it's like a history book disguised as a celestial daydream. Editor: Yes, and pondering on it leaves me in a state of thoughtful reflection, connecting the past to something transcendent.