Canto XXVIII. The Ninth Sphere: The Primum Mobile; The Divine Essence; The Celestial Hierarchies c. 15th century

Editor: This print, Canto XXVIII. The Ninth Sphere: The Primum Mobile; The Divine Essence; The Celestial Hierarchies, is by an anonymous artist. I'm struck by the intricate linework and the almost otherworldly feel it evokes. What do you see in this piece, especially considering its historical context? Curator: This print serves as a visual interpretation of Dante's Paradiso, reflecting the medieval understanding of cosmology and divinity. The hierarchical arrangement of celestial beings and the emphasis on light as a symbol of divine knowledge were central themes in Renaissance thought, particularly within religious and political spheres. Notice how the text and image work together to convey complex theological concepts. How might such imagery function within the public sphere of the time? Editor: It feels like it's attempting to visualize the unseeable, making abstract concepts more tangible. It invites the viewer to contemplate their place in the universe. Curator: Exactly! And consider the power dynamics at play: who controlled the interpretation and dissemination of these images? It speaks to the socio-political role of art in shaping public understanding. Editor: That's a great reminder to think critically about not just what art *shows*, but who *controls* the showing.