Madonna with the Butterfly 18th-19th century

Curator: This is "Madonna with the Butterfly," a print by Jean Thouvenin, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: There's a deep tenderness in this image; the faces are soft, and the monochrome palette gives it a dreamlike quality. Curator: The print reflects a popular devotional subject, widely reproduced and disseminated, reinforcing social values of motherhood and piety. Editor: Yes, and that butterfly, barely visible, held between the children— it's a symbol of the soul, isn't it? Fleeting, precious. Curator: Precisely. These prints served a vital role, democratizing access to religious iconography. Editor: It's fascinating how these visual motifs endure, shaping our understanding of faith. Curator: Indeed, viewing these prints allows us to understand the public role of art. Editor: A lasting image, reminding us how art echoes through time.