The Calvary c. 18th century

Curator: This is Louis Desplaces' "The Calvary," a somber piece. It lacks a specific creation date but we know Desplaces lived from 1682 to 1739. Editor: Bleak, isn’t it? Like a storm cloud settled right onto the page. The composition is so vertical, drawing your eye straight up to… well, you know. Curator: Indeed. The etching technique employed here really emphasizes the stark contrast between light and shadow. Note how Desplaces uses it to highlight the suffering of the figures. Editor: It makes you wonder, doesn’t it? About the darkness we all carry, the shadows we cast. Makes you want to curl up and hide. Curator: The piece compels you to consider your place within the historical event, or perhaps the figures' states of being? Editor: I suppose in the end, it’s about grappling with that discomfort, that shadow. Like facing a fear, or finally admitting you hate olives. Curator: Precisely. It invites introspection. Thanks for sharing your insights. Editor: And thank you for guiding me through the shadows.