Moses Leading his People c. 15th century

Editor: So, this is an anonymous print, "Moses Leading his People," housed at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a striking image with strong lines. What's your take on its historical context? Curator: Well, consider how images like this circulated in an era hungry for biblical narratives. The stark lines and accessible format made religious stories available to a wider audience, shaping collective understanding. How might this image have been used in public discourse? Editor: Perhaps to reinforce religious doctrine, or even to legitimize social hierarchies of the time? Curator: Exactly! And consider the artist's choice of Moses. Leading, certainly, but also burdened. It speaks volumes about the perceived role of leadership. What did you learn? Editor: That seeing art through a historical lens is crucial to understanding its impact.