Book XXXIII.37. Success against Boians, Laevans, Libuans, Insubrians and Comans {Quarte Decadis Liber Quartus p. CCIIII} 1493

Editor: This woodcut, "Book XXXIII.37," depicts a triumph of sorts, credited to an anonymous artist. It feels stark, almost judgmental. What narratives do you see unfolding here? Curator: It’s interesting to consider this image within its historical context. Look at the power dynamics represented: who is leading, who is being led. Think about whose stories are being told and whose are being erased in these historical records of military success. Who benefits from this narrative? Editor: So, the subjects are presented as defeated people? It's almost like the artist is making a political statement. Curator: Perhaps. And it prompts us to question the uncritical celebration of victory and empire. It encourages us to consider the experiences of those marginalized and oppressed by such triumphs. What do you make of it now? Editor: I see it now as less of a factual document and more of a piece of propaganda with a political message. Curator: Exactly. Questioning these historical depictions lets us engage critically with art and history.