Pulpit, Barga, Italy 19th-20th century

Editor: This watercolor painting by Joseph Smith depicts the Pulpit in Barga, Italy. I'm struck by the lion sculptures at the base; they seem to guard the entrance. What symbols do you see in this piece? Curator: The lions, traditionally symbols of strength and vigilance, often guarded sacred spaces in medieval times. Note the eagle above— a symbol of the Gospel writer John, but also of spiritual inspiration. Do these symbols evoke a sense of cultural memory? Editor: Yes, definitely. The way these symbols are placed together creates a really interesting visual narrative. It makes me think about how these images were used to communicate ideas across generations. Curator: Exactly! They act as conduits, channeling beliefs and values through time. The pulpit then becomes more than just a structure.