Venus and the Three Graces Mourning the Death of Adonis Possibly 1576

Editor: Here we have Luca Cambiaso’s "Venus and the Three Graces Mourning the Death of Adonis." It is currently held at the Harvard Art Museums, and the stark black and white lines are really striking. What stands out to you about the materials and production of this image? Curator: Well, look at the cross-hatching; it suggests this is a woodcut or engraving, a print. This means reproduction and dissemination. We should consider who had access to such imagery and how this influenced workshops and artistic training. Editor: So, it is not just about the beautiful figures, but also about how easily others could see them? Curator: Precisely. The means of production informs its impact. By understanding the process, we gain insight into its broader social and artistic context. It changes how I see the piece. Editor: I see what you mean. Thanks for opening my eyes to that.