Ship Great Harry c. 18th century

Curator: Here we have Pierre Charles Canot's "Ship Great Harry," held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The ship feels imposing, almost aggressively ornamented, doesn’t it? A very literal display of power through material excess. Curator: Absolutely, and this is crucial. The "Great Harry" wasn't merely a ship; it was a projection of Tudor power. The artist, Canot, creates a visual document that, although artistic, also serves as a record of naval ambition and the political sway of maritime strength. Editor: I’m struck by the etching process, how the precise lines mimic the meticulous labor involved in the ship’s construction. The image-making mirrors shipbuilding. Curator: Indeed, it shows us the cultural fascination with the ship as a symbol. Editor: Ultimately, it's a powerful reminder of the intersection between artistry, labor, and empire. Curator: And a beautiful illustration of the era’s vision of naval strength.