Holy Family with Saint Elizabeth and Saint John c. 18th century

Curator: This is Giovanni Folo’s “Holy Family with Saint Elizabeth and Saint John,” a scene positively radiating with tender affection. It feels like a whispered prayer. Editor: The layering of the figures is interesting, it makes me wonder about the printmaking process. Given Folo's dates, I assume it's an etching or engraving. Curator: Possibly, but more than the process, I am drawn to the almost palpable sense of maternal love depicted. It reminds me of lullabies my mother used to sing. Editor: Indeed. The image is clearly drawing upon an established repertoire of images that circulated widely, reinforcing social ideas about motherhood and faith. Curator: Perhaps. And maybe it’s just a beautiful expression of familial connection that transcends time. Editor: Possibly, but it’s worth questioning who benefits from the distribution and consumption of these images. Curator: Fair point! Editor: Always.