Fragment of an Ornamented Roman Pedestal 15th-16th century

Editor: This is Amico Aspertini's "Fragment of an Ornamented Roman Pedestal." It's a pen and ink drawing, and the detail is incredible. It's like a puzzle of symbols! What can you tell me about how to interpret this? Curator: Well, first, consider the helmet. What does that evoke? The ram heads? They speak to power, virility, perhaps even sacrifice. Aspertini is drawing upon a deep well of classical imagery. Editor: Sacrifice, that's interesting. I was focused on the power aspect, but I see what you mean. All these elements tell stories. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Consider how these symbols are transformed over time, their meanings evolving, yet retaining echoes of their origins. It’s a fascinating dialogue across centuries.