The Prophet Daniel's Vision of the Roman and Other Empires (Daniel Chap. 7) 1641

Curator: This fascinating print by Giacomo Lauro, housed here at the Harvard Art Museums, is titled "The Prophet Daniel's Vision of the Roman and Other Empires." Editor: Whoa, heavy stuff! It’s like a medieval monster movie, but way more intense. Look at those bizarre creatures. Curator: Indeed. Lauro visualizes Daniel's prophetic vision, rendering symbolic beasts—a winged lion, a bear, and a multi-headed figure—representing successive empires. Editor: The composition, all these fantastical beings lined up…there is a real apocalyptic feel, you know? Even the sky looks ominous. Curator: The sharp lines and detailed engraving amplify the drama. The artist skillfully employs visual language to convey complex theological concepts. Editor: Well, it definitely makes you think about the rise and fall of civilizations, and the monsters we create along the way. Curator: Exactly. The artwork captures how prophecy and art intersect. Editor: It’s wild, this image. I’ll certainly be chewing on that vision of Daniel for a while.