Autumn 1580

Editor: This is Johann Sadeler’s “Autumn,” an engraving now at the Harvard Art Museums. The scene is bustling with activity. What strikes me is how it idealizes labor, almost romanticizing it. How do you see this work? Curator: It's crucial to consider the socio-political context of Sadeler’s time. These idealized images often served to normalize existing power structures, masking the harsh realities of peasant labor. Note the astrological symbols, too; how do those fit into your understanding? Editor: It seems to suggest a divinely ordained natural order. I hadn't considered the engraving as a form of propaganda, subtly reinforcing social hierarchies. Curator: Precisely. By examining the work through a critical lens, we can see how art can both reflect and perpetuate societal norms. I wonder, where do you see that order breaking down?