Desco da parto con due fanciulli che giocano 

Curator: What we have here is a ‘desco da parto’, a birth tray, by Lo Scheggia, whimsically depicting two children at play. I must admit, it feels quite raw, almost…primal in its depiction of youthful energy. Editor: Interesting. Immediately, I notice the earthenware-like palette, those muted earth tones—almost deliberately underplaying the material richness that someone must have invested in the pigments and support. Do you think this might reflect the economics of these birth trays; that even commissioned works would betray some utilitarian purpose? Curator: Utilitarian, yes, but also celebratory. Think about it—a platter presented after childbirth, intended to be laden with treats. Yet, what an enduring and meaningful way to celebrate new life; in an almost eternal manner. This tray will probably be around longer than anyone actually around that baby when it came! Editor: Precisely! That enduring quality speaks to the labour involved, from the mining of the pigments to the master's workshop executing the design. The figures are compelling, even idealized; they recall that everpresent dialogue within artisanal labor, the tensions between skilled work versus “artistic vision." How did Lo Scheggia manage to pull the focus from, say, the plate itsef? Curator: The artist emphasizes this innocent sort of brawl of life in their stance. The painting embodies the Renaissance ideals of childhood: yes, there's their budding athleticism and strength… Editor: A labor that will presumably be put into serving family and State. But isn't there something subtly subversive in making naked children the focus, at the very moment family, property, and dynasty are placed under divine surveillance. Curator: Perhaps! Or perhaps this scene also evokes a deep connection, reflecting on a natural harmony with the physical world; perhaps Lo Scheggia is highlighting their raw humanity, their connection to something fundamental. We find ourselves wondering… will they be warriors? Politicians? Or is life, even then, a mere struggle? Editor: A struggle captured via a fascinating material compromise. But thinking about function versus symbolism; even the idea of food presented on the object takes on different weight considering everything else… Curator: Indeed. A perfect collision, of all meanings; as if the simple clay had indeed a soul. It’s fascinating to let one’s imagination take off into its possibilities! Editor: And by engaging these pieces and thinking about their social impact we discover, or create, this… magic.