Canto XIV. Circle 7 (Round 3) / The Violent Against God; The Burning Sand c. 15th century

Curator: This engraving, "Canto XIV. Circle 7 (Round 3) / The Violent Against God; The Burning Sand," is an anonymous work, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's immediately striking—the stark contrast of the lines really conveys a sense of torment and desolation. Curator: Absolutely. The image illustrates Dante's Inferno, specifically depicting the circle of those violent against God. We see the figures suffering in a barren landscape of burning sand. Editor: The figures are so active, writhing in pain. The artist captures the relentless nature of their suffering, condemned in this circle. How does the text around the image contribute? Curator: The text serves as commentary, dissecting the sins that led to this punishment—violence against God, nature, and art itself. It draws on theological and philosophical interpretations. Editor: It does feel very didactic, doesn't it? A stark reminder of the consequences of transgression, rooted in medieval understandings of sin and divine justice. Curator: Considering the time, this piece provides such a clear visual, a stark warning. Editor: Indeed. A powerful, disturbing work, even centuries later.