Profile Head of a Woman c. 16th century

Editor: This is a drawing called "Profile Head of a Woman" by a follower of Michelangelo. It's at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by the somber mood. What do you see here? Curator: I see a carefully constructed representation, likely intended as a study. Consider the implications of a male artist, even a follower, representing the female form. What power dynamics are at play here? Is this an act of reverence or objectification? Editor: That's interesting. I hadn't thought about the artist's perspective and the potential power dynamics of the male gaze. Curator: Exactly. And how does the woman’s veiled head speak to contemporary discussions about modesty and agency? Editor: It gives me a lot to think about. Thanks for the insights. Curator: My pleasure. Art is always in dialogue with the world around it.