The Envious Man, from the series "Bacchus and the Consequences of Drunkenness" early 20th century (original from c.1535)

Editor: This small bronze relief, "The Envious Man," comes from the series "Bacchus and the Consequences of Drunkenness" by an anonymous artist. It's incredibly detailed, but the mood seems… agitated? What strikes you when you look at this piece? Curator: Ah, agitation is a good word. I see a figure consumed by rage, literally smashing a wine vessel, surrounded by symbols of both abundance and ruin. It’s like a tiny, potent drama unfolding before us. Can you feel the raw emotion etched into the bronze? Do you wonder what triggered such a violent display? Editor: Absolutely. It's like a snapshot of a breakdown. I hadn't considered the symbols of abundance versus ruin before. Curator: These images were like little morality plays back then; reminders that even pleasure has its dark side. Now, I'm wondering, does it still feel relevant today? Editor: Definitely. It's a timeless warning about the dangers of unchecked emotion. Thanks, that perspective really opened it up for me.