Sabina Poppaea, Wife of Nero c. 15th century

Editor: So, this is a woodcut of Sabina Poppaea, Wife of Nero, by an anonymous artist. It's striking how the stark black lines define the figures. What formal qualities stand out to you in this composition? Curator: The linear quality is indeed prominent. Note how the artist uses hatching and cross-hatching to create a sense of depth and shadow, yet the overall effect remains quite flat. Consider how this flattening emphasizes the graphic nature of the image. What effect do you think this has on the viewer? Editor: I think it makes the image more symbolic and less about the individual, more about the idea of power. It is interesting to think about how the texture influences this interpretation. Thank you! Curator: Indeed! Analyzing these formal elements provides insight into the artwork's conceptual underpinnings.