Angel with the ladder, the hammers, nails and gallipot 16th-17th century

Curator: Here we have Aegidius Sadeler II's engraving, "Angel with the ladder, the hammers, nails and gallipot," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. It's an intriguing piece, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Hauntingly beautiful! The angel's gaze draws you in immediately, and the ladder is so prominent it feels like we're being invited to climb it too. Curator: Notice how the ladder intersects the angel, partially obscuring her. It’s a symbol of Christ’s Passion, a physical tool related to the crucifixion. Editor: Yes, alongside the hammers, nails and the gallipot... it feels less like an invitation and more like a visual dirge. But an angel carrying these symbols? What’s that about? Curator: Angels were often depicted carrying the instruments of Christ’s Passion to remind the viewer of the angel's presence throughout Jesus’ life. Editor: The angel herself seems burdened, as if she fully comprehends the weight of what is to come. It’s a stark contrast to those chubby, carefree cherubs you often see. Curator: Exactly, Sadeler's work evokes a very somber mood. His ability to convey such emotional depth is quite striking, isn’t it? Editor: Absolutely. I am forever moved by the ability of art to create an atmosphere, even through something as simple as the choice of tools depicted.