Border from Anglicanae Insulae Nova Descriptio, complectens & Hiberniae & Scotiae propinquiores limites 15th-16th century

Curator: This piece, an anonymous border titled "Border from Anglicanae Insulae Nova Descriptio," presents a wealth of structured ornament. Editor: It's almost claustrophobic, isn’t it? All those chubby cherubs and stone faces feel like they're trying to escape the page. Curator: Indeed, the composition is densely packed, reflecting a Mannerist sensibility that favors complexity and artifice over naturalism. Note the columns, the cartouche, and the varying relief, each meticulously rendered. Editor: The fact that it's framing a map, though… it’s like the frame is more important than what it’s supposed to be highlighting. Curator: The frame as an object, yes, surpassing the significance of its subject! Well observed. Editor: It leaves me feeling a bit restless and ready to break free, myself. Curator: An interesting counterpoint to my rather more admiring approach.