Study for the Ascension of the Virgin 1500 - 1600

Editor: Here we have "Study for the Ascension of the Virgin" created sometime between 1500 and 1600 by Marco Pino. It's a drawing currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I am really struck by the implied movement and dynamism. How do you interpret this work, especially considering its historical context? Curator: Well, from a historical perspective, it's important to understand the evolving role of religious imagery. The ascension motif had been solidified, but here, Pino engages with the theatricality increasingly demanded by the Church. Think about the Counter-Reformation: images needed to inspire, convince. Editor: So, you're saying this isn’t just a study of form, but a strategic piece designed to elicit a certain reaction? Curator: Precisely. This drawing anticipates its audience. It had to visually assert religious dominance after a century of turmoil and skepticism. Editor: It’s interesting to consider this artwork's intention with religion's changing position at that time. I was originally seeing more just artistic form rather than such cultural considerations. Curator: And that's valuable too. Seeing the work in relation to religion is also essential. Visual choices aren't neutral. How does that understanding of visual agency change the work for you? Editor: Well, I’ll definitely see how social and political power influence the artwork when visiting the museum again. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure. It's all a network of seeing and feeling.