Book X.14. M. Valerius leads the infantry against Samnites {Primae Decadis Liber Decimus p. LXXXV verso} 1493

Editor: Here we have *Book X.14. M. Valerius leads the infantry against Samnites,* an anonymous work. It seems to depict a battle scene, rendered with stark lines. What strikes you most about its composition? Curator: The dynamism within such a confined space is intriguing. Note how the linear arrangement of figures creates a sense of depth, however limited. The contrast between the dense foreground and the implied space draws the eye. Editor: It does feel a bit crowded, but you are right. The bold lines create movement and almost give it a sense of urgency. Curator: Precisely. The reduction to essential forms invites us to consider the fundamental elements of representation and narrative. The very sparseness amplifies the drama. Editor: I will keep that in mind when looking at works that have so few elements. Thanks for helping me notice how much is going on in such a simple image.