Title-border: Tantalus; small initial E 1548

Editor: This is “Title-border: Tantalus; small initial E” by Hans Holbein the Younger. I find the figures framing the text really intriguing; it feels like they are part of the story of the title itself. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Holbein masterfully weaves classical mythology into this title border. Look closely at the figure of Tantalus on the left, forever tormented by unattainable desires. He embodies the frustration of knowledge just out of reach, perhaps reflecting the challenges of grappling with ancient Greek texts. Editor: So, the imagery isn't just decorative but actually speaks to the content of the book? Curator: Precisely. Holbein uses these symbols to layer meaning. Consider also the scenes from classical mythology that frame the title. They enrich our understanding of how Renaissance scholars viewed and interpreted classical texts. Editor: That's fascinating. I'll definitely look at title pages with a new perspective now!