Book XXVIII.24. Scipio seized by illness {Tertiae Decadis Liber Octavus p. CLXIII} 1493

Curator: The Harvard Art Museums holds this fascinating, small woodcut print titled "Book XXVIII.24. Scipio seized by illness." It's anonymous, from an old book it seems. Editor: There's something hauntingly medieval about its stark, angular lines, isn't there? It almost feels like a woodblock depiction of a bad dream. Curator: Indeed, the composition is fascinating. The bed, oddly barrel-shaped, dominates the scene, surrounded by figures expressing concern. Notice the tent-like structure adding to the scene's drama. Editor: The artist’s rendering of grief is quite striking. The angularity, the slight distortions, they speak volumes about the emotional turmoil, don’t they? I wonder if the artist was even thinking about emotional impact while making this. Curator: Perhaps. The print, while simple in execution, captures a poignant moment in history or legend, depending on how one interprets Scipio’s story. It’s quite moving actually. Editor: Yes, and the very limitations of the medium-- the stark black and white-- somehow amplify that sense of vulnerability and mortality. Curator: Absolutely, a potent reminder of our own fleeting existence, captured in this small, unassuming image.