Canto XXI. The Fifth Cornice / The Avaricious; the Poet Statius c. 15th century

Curator: Here, we have an illustration titled "Canto XXI. The Fifth Cornice / The Avaricious; the Poet Statius" by an anonymous artist. It resides in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: My first impression? The scene feels crowded, almost claustrophobic, but there’s a sense of upward movement, like a silent, spiritual ascent. Curator: Indeed. The image captures a moment from Dante's Purgatorio, specifically the cornice where the avaricious are purged. The figures pressed together represent souls undergoing penance. The standing figures, including Statius, signal a transition. The woodcut's stark lines emphasize the harshness of this spiritual realm. Editor: The detail in the faces is striking. You can almost feel their yearning, their struggle to break free from earthly desires. The landscape looms, indifferent to their suffering, which amplifies the sense of isolation and inner turmoil. Curator: The artwork's power lies in its ability to visualize Dante’s complex theology and moral philosophy. It offers viewers a glimpse into the medieval understanding of sin, repentance, and the journey toward spiritual purification. Editor: It's a potent reminder of our own internal battles, isn’t it? The quest to overcome our darker impulses, the climb toward a more enlightened self. It’s all right there in those stark, unforgiving lines.