Christ Crucified, between the Virgin and St. John 15th-16th century

Editor: Here we have an anonymous piece titled "Christ Crucified, between the Virgin and St. John," currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. The stark imagery and the skull at the base of the cross are quite striking. What social commentary do you see embedded in this piece? Curator: The crucifixion, though a religious scene, speaks volumes about power structures. Consider how this imagery was often used to reinforce societal hierarchies, legitimizing the suffering of the oppressed. What does the positioning of the Virgin and St. John evoke for you? Editor: Perhaps their placement is meant to signify their roles as witnesses, both mourning and embodying unwavering faith despite injustice. Curator: Precisely. And notice how the artist uses their presence to subtly challenge or perhaps even console those facing similar marginalization. It's a potent visual statement about resilience. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure. It's through these dialogues that art truly resonates.