The Victory of the Scipios at Illiturgo from Historiae romanae decades (Roman History), Plate 49 from Woodcuts from Books of the 15th Century c. 1493 - 1929

Editor: Here we have "The Victory of the Scipios at Illiturgo" from *Historiae romanae decades*, a woodcut print from around 1493, attributed to Monogrammist F. It’s currently at the Art Institute of Chicago. It's incredibly detailed for such a small image. I find it difficult to unpack the scene and what is taking place in the historical narrative. What stands out to you, especially considering the cultural memory it evokes? Curator: Well, at first glance, we are invited into a theatrical drama. I'm struck by the artist's reliance on the written word *within* the image. See how text boxes, nestled amongst the chaotic battle, are as prominent as the figures? It is clear that the woodcut's purpose extended beyond mere depiction; it aimed to instruct, to immortalize Scipio's victory not just as an event, but as a lesson, an archetype. Editor: I noticed the text boxes. What do they tell us? Curator: The strategic use of the text works as mnemonic devices to imprint Scipio’s triumph on the viewer's consciousness. It reflects the medieval mindset, where visual and textual elements were synthesized to forge collective memory. The cultural weight rests on the interplay of image and script. Do you see any symbolic gestures or figures? Editor: The figures appear frozen within the composition despite the action; and the horses seem ornamental, with no emotion conveyed in their faces or gaits. Curator: Exactly! It’s not just a snapshot of war. The figures embody bravery and intellect – timeless virtues. It makes us ponder: what parts of their culture did the patrons value most? Editor: It's interesting to think about how artists selected these moments to portray history for future generations. I initially only considered this as an artwork, but it really offers so much insight into cultural values.