L'Amour c. 19th century

Curator: Before us is "L'Amour" by François Forster, currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. The engraving presents Cupid in repose, having seemingly exhausted his mischievous energies. Editor: He looks utterly knackered! The little cherub is all sprawled out, like he’s just finished a really long shift of shooting arrows. Curator: Note how Forster manipulates light and shadow to sculpt Cupid's form, lending a palpable volume to the figure. The composition, too, carefully balances the textures of skin, fabric, and landscape. Editor: I love how the quiver full of arrows is almost a character itself. It's like the tools of his trade, carelessly tossed aside as he slumbers. What a life, eh? Curator: Indeed, the discarded arrows may symbolize the temporary abatement of love's chaotic influence. It is a moment of calm. Editor: Makes you wonder what kind of mischief he’ll get up to when he wakes up. Still, a beautiful moment frozen in time. Curator: Precisely. A clever piece that manages to be both technically astute and emotionally resonant. Editor: Leaving us to reflect on the capricious nature of love. Well put!