Jupiter in a Chariot Drawn by Two Peacocks above, a king being crowned by a Pope below, from 'The Seven Planets' 1533

Editor: This engraving, dating back to 1533, is by Girolamo Grandi. It’s called “Jupiter in a Chariot Drawn by Two Peacocks above, a king being crowned by a Pope below, from 'The Seven Planets'.” The figures are very linear and feel formal, yet also somewhat whimsical because of the peacocks. It's got me thinking about the relationship between earthly and divine power... What strikes you when you look at this print? Curator: Oh, the cosmos winks at us through Grandi’s lines, doesn’t it? You nailed the divine-earthly interplay – a Renaissance tightrope walk! For me, it's the allegorical mashup that grabs me. Jupiter, with his peacocks, represents prosperity and divine order, while below, you have this very specific act of earthly power – a Pope crowning a King. See how the linear style, almost like handwriting, emphasizes the intention of illustrating complex connections! Doesn’t it make you wonder about Grandi's beliefs regarding the Papacy and earthly rulers? Editor: Absolutely, and the precision of the lines adds to that feeling. Do you think he was trying to make a statement? Curator: Oh, darling, artists always whisper secrets, don’t they? The Italian Renaissance was all about Humanism, placing humankind and earthly events within a grand, classical framework. Perhaps Grandi is suggesting that even Kings require divine justification, or conversely, implying the Pope's authority is divinely mandated through Jupiter. It’s a puzzle! He certainly seems to be drawing some equivalence, doesn't he? A good question to reflect upon! Editor: This has definitely changed the way I see the artwork. It's not just an illustration, it's a complex statement about power, legacy and beliefs. Curator: Precisely! Now, every time you gaze upon peacocks, you'll remember they once pulled Jupiter’s chariot – and maybe question the power structures around you. That's the magic of art, isn’t it?