Plate XVI c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Plate XVI" by Francesco Curti, from the 17th century, residing at the Harvard Art Museums. It feels like a triumphant scene, this muscular figure overpowering a beast. What's the story this image is trying to tell? Curator: Notice the figure's lion skin and club. It's Hercules! The lion skin connects him to the Nemean Lion, and the club symbolizes his strength. The Hydra he's battling represents chaos. See how this imagery is not just illustrative, but symbolic of virtue conquering vice. Also, observe the heraldic shield; what does that say about the patron and the cultural values they wished to project? Editor: That’s fascinating! So, the image operates on multiple layers, representing both the mythological narrative and the patron's aspirations. Curator: Precisely! By understanding the visual vocabulary, we can unlock layers of meaning embedded within. Editor: I see it now! The symbols really carry the cultural weight. Thanks!