Panel with Busts of Saints c. 11th century

Editor: This is a medieval ivory panel with busts of saints, its creator is unknown, and it lives here at the Harvard Art Museums. It feels very formal and imposing. What strikes you about it? Curator: This panel speaks to power dynamics within the church. Notice the central figure, likely Christ, elevated and larger than the surrounding saints. Editor: Yes, definitely. Curator: Consider how the artist uses hierarchy to reinforce religious doctrine and social order. Who was this panel made for, and what messages were they meant to receive? Editor: So, it's not just a religious scene, but a statement about authority and control. Thanks, I hadn't thought about it that way. Curator: Exactly. Art is always saying something about the world it inhabits, subtly or overtly.