Canto XI. First Cornice / The Proud; Omberto Aldobrandesco; Oderisi d' Aggobio c. 15th century

Curator: Here we have an anonymous woodcut, titled "Canto XI. First Cornice / The Proud; Omberto Aldobrandesco; Oderisi d' Aggobio," currently housed in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's strikingly somber. The stark lines and heavy text create a claustrophobic feel, almost like the weight of the words is pressing down on the figures. Curator: That's a powerful observation. Consider that it depicts the first terrace of Purgatory in Dante’s Divine Comedy, a space for souls purging pride through physical and spiritual humility. The heavy burden the figures bear symbolizes their past arrogance. Editor: So, these figures are literally carrying the weight of their transgressions? The visual symbolism is potent – their bowed heads and labored postures speak volumes about the process of repentance. Curator: Precisely. The image engages with themes of social hierarchy and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The act of carrying stones becomes a metaphor for dismantling ego and societal power structures. Editor: It’s interesting how such a simple medium can convey complex ideas about societal structures and the human condition. It makes me think about the visual language of power and how it's been challenged across centuries. Curator: It's a testament to the enduring power of symbols to communicate universal struggles. Editor: Indeed. It is a reminder that even in our contemporary society we continue to grapple with pride, humility, and redemption.