Virgin Enthroned c. 16th century

Editor: This is "Virgin Enthroned," by an anonymous artist, held at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a striking image, and the density of the lines used to create the image is fascinating! What is your interpretation of this work? Curator: I’m drawn to the materiality of this piece. Consider the labor involved in creating such a detailed woodcut, the physical act of carving. Also, the reproductive nature of prints suggests a wider consumption, making religious iconography accessible beyond the elite. How does that impact our understanding of the Virgin's image? Editor: That's interesting. So it’s not just about the religious symbolism, but also about how the image was produced and distributed? Curator: Exactly. The medium itself becomes part of the message. Think about the social context of printmaking during that era. Editor: I never considered it that way, focusing on process and accessibility rather than just the subject matter. Thanks!