Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Visiting the Sick c. 16th century

Editor: Nicolas Beatrizet the Younger's "Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Visiting the Sick," held at the Harvard Art Museums, depicts a scene of compassion. The expressions are so moving. What resonates with you most in this work? Curator: I am struck by how Elizabeth, though the subject of adoration, echoes symbols of motherhood and nurturing present in images of the Madonna. See how the artist positions her amongst the sick, drawing a parallel between divine compassion and earthly empathy. Consider also how this juxtaposition reflects shifting cultural values concerning social responsibility. What new layers of meaning might this reveal? Editor: That's fascinating! It makes me think about how images can embody changing social values, linking history with the psychology of compassion. Thanks for sharing your perspective. Curator: And thank you. By engaging with the symbols of the past, we shed light on our present.