Egyptian Statue 19th-20th century

Curator: Let's discuss Joseph Smith's "Egyptian Statue," held here at the Harvard Art Museums. It measures about 80 by 54 centimeters. Editor: It has a somber mood. The fragmented surface evokes a sense of vulnerability and questions of power, even decay. The statue's form is still imposing, despite the obvious cracks. Curator: Notice how Smith renders the materiality. The texture of the stone is skillfully suggested, yet the breaks reveal a hidden vulnerability. How does this connect to its construction? Editor: I see it as symbolic of the damage inflicted upon marginalized communities through objectification and exploitation, even within a museum setting. This representation of a body challenges our assumptions about the gaze. Curator: It's interesting how Smith's work prompts these readings. The artist emphasizes both the statue’s material construction and its symbolic representation. Editor: It makes me reflect on the importance of continually re-evaluating cultural heritage with a critical lens. Curator: Absolutely, and the dialogue the work generates around materiality and meaning is invaluable.