Men and Dogs Hunting an Ostrich c. 16th century

Curator: The sheer frenzy in this print is amazing. It’s like a feathered blur of panic and pursuit. Editor: That's right. This etching, titled "Men and Dogs Hunting an Ostrich," was created by Antonio Tempesta, an Italian artist who lived from 1555 to 1630. It now resides here at the Harvard Art Museums. Curator: It’s brutal, isn't it? The ostrich is this magnificent, awkward creature, and they're all going after it. I feel a strange sympathy for the poor bird. Editor: Tempesta's hunting scenes often reflect the power dynamics of his time. The hunt wasn't just about acquiring food; it was a display of status and control. Curator: Control...yes. The way the dogs seem to enjoy the chase, almost taunting the ostrich, adds to the picture's cruelty. It makes you think about who is really in control here. Editor: Indeed. And the print itself, designed for a wider audience, helped disseminate these images of power and dominance throughout society. Curator: It certainly gives one a lot to think about, beyond just the scene of the hunt. Editor: Absolutely. It is a complex work that continues to resonate today, offering insights into the cultural values of the past.