Book XXXI.47. Coela, site of many battles, here Romans are aided by Attalus and Rhodians against Philip and his allies {Quarte Decadis Liber Primus p. CXC} 1493

Curator: This woodcut, titled "Book XXXI.47," depicts a naval scene; its origin and creator remain anonymous. The location given indicates a scene near Coela during ancient battles. Editor: The choppy water almost makes me seasick just looking at it. The artist captured that feeling of being tossed around on a small boat, even in this simple form. Curator: Indeed, the composition is quite dynamic. Notice how the linear repetition of the waves creates a sense of movement, contrasted by the static, somewhat crude rendering of the ships. Editor: It's like a comic book panel, stripped down to its barest essentials. A story told through shapes and lines. What do you suppose they were battling over? Curator: The inscription suggests Romans aided by Attalus and Rhodians confronting Philip and his allies, indicating power struggles and alliances that dominated the historical narrative around Coela. Editor: I'm left pondering our constant clashes, then and now, all playing out on that same restless sea. Quite a poignant sentiment from an unknown hand.