Virgin Descending the Stairs of the Temple; Espousals of the Virgin c. 19th century

Editor: This engraving by Conte Carlo Lasinio depicts two scenes: "Virgin Descending the Stairs of the Temple" and "Espousals of the Virgin." I notice the heavy use of line and how it creates a sense of depth. What strikes you most about this piece? Curator: I focus on the engraving process itself. Consider the labor involved in creating this intricate image, the physical act of cutting into the metal, and how that material process shapes the final image and the narratives it conveys about labor within a religious context. What was Lasinio hoping to achieve, reproducing these scenes? Editor: So, you’re thinking about the intersection of the sacred and the practical through the artist's labor? That's a very interesting perspective. Curator: Exactly. We can also consider how the consumption of such images reinforces social and religious structures. Reflecting on the commodification and distribution of religious imagery back then adds another layer.