Altar Frame 1500 - 1600

Editor: This drawing, "Altar Frame," is attributed to an anonymous artist from sometime between 1500 and 1600. It's a print in pencil, charcoal and ink and you can see it at The Met. It reminds me of those Renaissance architectural drawings, very precise and technical, yet… kind of ghostly. What stands out to you in this piece? Curator: Ghostly is a lovely word! It’s a working drawing, you know? An idea taking shape, rather than a finished proclamation. For me, that open space within the frame is especially suggestive. What will it hold? A painting? A sculpture? And what prayers will be offered before it? What’s going to live inside this frame? It’s full of possibility, isn't it? And a little like gazing at the skeleton of an idea, waiting for it to be fleshed out and brought to life. Do you find yourself imagining what could fill the void? Editor: Definitely. I'm thinking about a painted Madonna, something very classical. All those strong vertical lines and classical details would be a good fit, wouldn't you agree? Curator: Possibly! But maybe something utterly unexpected, to create an intriguing contrast? What do you make of the asymmetry? The right-hand pillar feels so much more ornate than the left. It's like a whispered debate on the nature of balance and order! What do you think was the artist trying to convey? Editor: It's like the architect couldn't decide between practicality and high design, which makes me see it as a sketch more than anything. I hadn't considered its asymmetry until you mentioned it, though! Now that really brings it to life. Curator: Exactly! Isn't it wonderful how a closer look can shift your whole perspective? Maybe all works of art are ultimately works in progress! Editor: I'll remember that!