Plates from John Leslie's "De Origine Scotorum" Possibly 1675

Editor: So, we have here a print, or rather a set of plates, possibly from 1675, that came from John Leslie's "De Origine Scotorum." I'm immediately struck by the symmetry and the ornate details – the crown, the shield. How might we understand the cultural significance of these images? Curator: The visual language here speaks volumes. The crown, of course, is a universal symbol of authority, but placed above a shield, which would bear a coat of arms, we're specifically referencing Scottish power structures, perhaps even the Stuart monarchy, burdened with dynastic challenges during this era. What feelings does the imagery evoke for you? Editor: It feels almost... nostalgic? Like it's trying to evoke a sense of grand history. Is that deliberate? Curator: Absolutely. Consider the context: "De Origine Scotorum" translates to "On the Origin of the Scots." This work aims to construct and legitimize a national identity. The symbolic language—the heraldry, the baroque embellishments—presents Scotland as a kingdom with ancient roots, divine right, and an unbroken lineage. Do you notice any repetition? Editor: The repeated use of gold leaf stands out. And the fleur-de-lis like ornaments are similar in style. Curator: The golden flourishes lend an aura of sacredness and permanence. In early icon painting, gold backgrounds often signified the divine. Here, it elevates the Scottish lineage to something similarly esteemed, unchanging, idealised. How might the book’s purpose change the way it uses the familiar symbol of the Crown? Editor: I guess it's less about immediate power and more about historical legitimacy? Showing that Scotland has always been powerful. Curator: Precisely. The artist crafts an image of Scotland designed to endure in the cultural memory, reinforcing a particular narrative of national identity through these carefully chosen symbols. This dialogue is illuminating; thank you for the insight. Editor: Thank you. Looking at it from the perspective of symbolism adds such a deeper understanding.