Book XXIII.33. An alliance is formed between Philip, King of Macedonia, and Hannibal {Tertiae Decadis Liber Tertius p. CXVIII verso} 1493

Editor: This woodcut, “Book XXIII.33. An alliance is formed between Philip, King of Macedonia, and Hannibal,” is an anonymous work. The stark black and white imagery gives it a serious, almost ominous tone. What historical narratives do you see at play here? Curator: This image is a fascinating window into how historical power dynamics were visualized. The alliance between Philip and Hannibal was a strategic move against Roman dominance, a moment of resistance. How might the artist's social context have influenced their depiction of this alliance? Editor: So, the artist's own position shapes how they portray this historical moment of resistance? Curator: Precisely. Consider the visual language of power here – the figures, the setting. What commentary might the artist be making about leadership, resistance, and the ever-shifting landscape of political alliances? Editor: I see now that art is not just a representation of history, but an active participant in shaping our understanding of it. Curator: Exactly. It’s a dialogue between the past and present.