Moses Abandoned on the Nile c. 17th century

Editor: Here we have Charles Macé's "Moses Abandoned on the Nile," a fascinating plate housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The expressions of anguish are so potent. What strikes you when you look at this piece? Curator: It's interesting to consider how this image, depicting a pivotal moment from the Exodus story, functioned within its socio-political context. How did interpretations of this scene of abandonment and rescue shape attitudes toward power, religion, and social responsibility? Editor: That’s a good point! I hadn’t considered how political it could be. Curator: Think about the power dynamics at play: a vulnerable infant, a desperate act of abandonment, and the potential for salvation. This isn't just a religious scene; it's a tableau of power, fear, and hope. Did the artist support the monarchy or question it? It would be interesting to find out. Editor: Thanks, that really made me think about art’s connection to social issues in a new way.