Illustration from J. B. Porta, Magiae Naturalis (?) c. 16th century

Curator: Look at this intriguing illustration, thought to be from Giambattista della Porta’s *Magiae Naturalis*. There's no date or known artist. Editor: It has such a somber air. The face is crowned with what looks like a floral garland, but the down-turned mouth and furrowed brow speak of profound discontent. Curator: Indeed. The winged motif suggests Hermes or Mercury, a messenger, perhaps bearing news that isn't welcome. Editor: It reminds me of depictions of enslaved people with wings indicating freedom that is just out of reach. Curator: Or, consider the image as a symbol of obscured knowledge. Della Porta’s book explored occult sciences. The wings could represent the flight of secrets, and the heavy expression, the burden of arcane knowledge. Editor: It is a potent image, pregnant with the anxieties of its time, and perhaps our own. Curator: Yes, a reminder that knowledge and freedom are eternally intertwined, always yearned for. Editor: A somber, but fitting note.