The Temptation c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have Pietro Antonio Novelli's "The Temptation," a drawing of undetermined date, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The figures seem caught in a moment of exchange. What strikes you about its composition? Curator: The rendering of space is particularly interesting. Note how the architectural elements frame the central figures. Observe, also, the contrast in texture between the smooth faces and the rougher rendering of the clothing. How does that contrast affect your perception? Editor: It draws my eye to the faces, making them seem more prominent, more important. Curator: Precisely. The artist employs these formal devices to guide our reading of the image, underscoring the human element amidst the suggestion of a narrative. Editor: I see it now. The relationships between the figures are highlighted through the textures and composition. Curator: Indeed. A close reading reveals the artist's intention.