The Holy Family 17th-18th century

Editor: This is Gérard Edelinck's "The Holy Family," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. The expressions on the faces of the figures are so compelling. What do you make of the symbolism in this work? Curator: Consider the halos: They signify holiness, yes, but also set the figures apart in a visual language familiar to its audience. Notice, too, the detail of the angels bestowing a crown of flowers. Do you see how this speaks to themes of innocence and divine favor? Editor: I see it now. The imagery carries such weight. It’s like a visual echo of cultural memory. Curator: Precisely. Edelinck uses these symbols to tap into centuries of religious and cultural understanding, creating a resonance that goes beyond the purely aesthetic. Editor: I hadn't thought about it in terms of cultural memory. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure. Recognizing how visual symbols carry cultural weight enriches our experience of art.