La Fornarina c. 19th century

Editor: This is Gustavo Bonaini’s "La Fornarina," currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The subject's gaze is so direct, almost challenging. What do you see in this portrait? Curator: It evokes classical ideals, doesn't it? Think about the wreath: a symbol of victory and virtue carried over from ancient Greece. And the fur wrap; is it a symbol of status, or a shield against vulnerability? Editor: I hadn't considered the wreath beyond its aesthetic value. It's fascinating how symbols evolve and accumulate meaning over time! Curator: Indeed. It makes you wonder what future generations will interpret from our own cultural symbols. Editor: That’s so interesting! Thank you.