The Four Seasons: Winter c. 1760 - 1765

Editor: Here we have "The Four Seasons: Winter," a sculpture made by the Workshop of Johann Joachim Günther. It has a somber, imposing presence. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It is interesting how Winter is embodied here. The figure holds what appears to be a brazier, but look at the cherubic figure at his feet. What does it suggest to you? Editor: Well, the cherub seems to be offering produce, maybe to soften Winter's harshness? Curator: Precisely! It's fascinating how public sculptures like this shaped perceptions of the seasons, reinforcing specific social roles and expectations through allegorical representation. Winter is not merely a season, but a social force to be reckoned with, and perhaps even appeased. Editor: I never thought about how art could be used to reinforce social norms. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: It shows the public role of art, and the politics of imagery, doesn’t it?