Trionfo Di Virtu. Libro Novo..., page 3 (recto) 1563

This engraving by Matteo Pagano, titled "Trionfo Di Virtu", presents a fascinating array of birds and ornate vases. Birds, in their freedom of flight, have long symbolized the soul’s journey and divine connection. Here, the variety suggests a broader scope of human virtues, each bird embodying a particular trait. The peacock, for example, traditionally represents pride, yet can also symbolize resurrection. These avian figures are juxtaposed with classical vases, objects that echo ancient ideals of beauty and order. Notice the vase adorned with grotesque masks, a motif prevalent since antiquity. These masks, often demonic or comedic, were used to ward off evil. Interestingly, such faces appear throughout history, from ancient Greek theaters to Renaissance gardens, evolving from protective symbols to mere decorative elements. This transformation illustrates the complex dance of cultural memory, where symbols shift in meaning yet retain a powerful, if subconscious, hold on our imagination. The emotional power of these images lies in their ability to evoke deep-seated cultural memories, reminding us of the cyclical nature of symbols that resurface, evolve, and adapt across time.