Madonna and Child c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have Jean Bein's "Madonna and Child," at the Harvard Art Museums. It’s a delicate sketch, and the figures seem to float on the page. What strikes you about it? Curator: It whispers secrets of the artist's process, doesn’t it? The tender lines hint at the profound bond, yes, but also at the artist’s struggle to capture it. Isn't it curious how the extra face drawing above seems to be looking down on the Madonna and Child? Perhaps it is God? Editor: That's interesting, it does make me wonder about the gaze that ties the three figures together. Thanks for pointing it out! Curator: My pleasure, I am always happy to share my perspective.