Death of the Virgin c. 18th century

Curator: Here we have Domenico Cunego’s "Death of the Virgin," currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It evokes a somber tone, doesn't it? Editor: Yes, the cross-hatching creates a pervasive sense of grief. The labor involved in such a detailed printmaking process reflects a deep cultural reverence for the subject. Curator: Indeed. Consider the socio-political implications of depicting the Virgin Mary's death in this way. It reinforces the church's power by emphasizing her piety and sacrifice. Editor: And Cunego, active in 18th-century Rome, was undoubtedly influenced by the demand from the art market, where religious prints held considerable value for both individuals and institutions. Curator: The print served as a tangible connection to faith, disseminated through the market. Editor: Exactly. It invites reflection on the convergence of faith, art, and the social conditions that gave rise to its production.