Adoration of the Shepherds c. 18th century

Curator: This print, "Adoration of the Shepherds," was created by Jean Daullé, an artist who lived from 1703 to 1763. It’s currently held in the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: The engraving has a very striking, ethereal quality. The stark contrasts really highlight the drama of the scene. Curator: Daullé’s work invites us to consider the intersection of religious narratives and social realities. How might this image have shaped the viewer's understanding of power dynamics and spiritual devotion? Editor: What strikes me is the incredible skill required to produce this image. Consider the physical labor involved in creating such intricate details through engraving – the process itself speaks to a deep devotion. Curator: Absolutely. We can also read into the positioning of the figures—Mary kneeling, Joseph standing off to the side—to explore gender roles and societal expectations. Editor: And the materiality of the print itself— the paper, the ink, the tools— all connect to the economics of art production during Daullé’s time. Curator: Thinking about the image and its potential influence on political and religious ideologies opens up a complex discussion. Editor: Indeed, considering the craftsmanship alongside its historical context reveals a rich tapestry of social and material conditions.