Illustration from J. B. Porta, Magiae Naturalis c. 16th century

Curator: This striking woodcut comes from an anonymous illustration for Giambattista della Porta’s *Magiae Naturalis*. It presents us with a winged, floral-crowned head. Editor: The immediate impact is so compelling—that dense black ink against the aged paper really makes the figure leap out. A powerful visage. Curator: The head is fascinating in terms of its inherent design—the stark contrast and dense linework create a dramatic sense of depth. Note the careful balance between curvilinear forms, such as the wings and floral crown, and the hard, angular lines of the facial features. Editor: It certainly evokes a sense of ancient mystery. These winged figures often signified deities or spirits, suggesting a connection between knowledge and the divine. The flowers add a layer of natural magic, a reminder of the book’s exploration of the natural world. Curator: Yes, the very materiality of the print enhances its symbolic meaning, speaking to the relationship between form and content. Editor: A potent intersection of art, science, and belief.