Answer the following question in 3-4 complete sentences. How has the artist used light to create a desired affect in this piece? What do you hypothesize the source of the light to be and why?

Answer:

The artist uses strong contrast between bright highlights and deep shadows to create a dramatic, mysterious mood and draw attention to the figures and their gestures. A diagonal beam of light guides the viewer’s eye across the room toward the people. I hypothesize that the light comes from sunlight entering through the window, although its focused quality may also symbolize divine intervention. The bright figures stand out as especially important against the surrounding darkness.