Book I.34. Lucuomo and Tanaquil set off for Rome; Eagle repositions his hat {Primae Decadis Liber Primus p. VII} 1493

Editor: This woodcut, "Book I.34. Lucuomo and Tanaquil set off for Rome; Eagle repositions his hat," is by an anonymous artist. It has such a whimsical, fairytale feel! What do you see in the eagle stealing the hat? Curator: The eagle stealing the hat isn't theft; it's a potent symbol. Eagles, throughout history, signify power, victory, and even divine intervention. What if this act is a blessing, a sign of future greatness bestowed upon Lucumo by the gods? Editor: A blessing, not a robbery! That shifts my understanding. So, the artist is using the eagle to communicate something deeper? Curator: Exactly! Consider how cultures use animals to project meaning. The eagle connects Lucumo's journey to themes of destiny and Rome's ascent. Does this added layer of symbolism affect how you view the journey portrayed? Editor: It does. The image feels less like a simple trip and more like a foundational myth. Thanks!