Illustration III 1491

Editor: So, this is "Illustration III," it's undated and the artist is anonymous. I'm struck by the starkness of the image within the text. What symbols or cultural memories do you see evoked here? Curator: I'm immediately drawn to the figure of Pluto. The depiction of Pluto is fascinating because, over time, Pluto becomes the lord of wealth, riches, and hidden treasures. Do you see any connection to Dante's text? Editor: Ah, I see! The text mentions "Pluto signor delle richeze," so the image reinforces Pluto's association with material wealth. How interesting. Curator: Precisely. It suggests a cultural continuity in how we visualize and understand the concept of wealth, even within a religious context. It's about power, control, and the hidden aspects of human desire. Editor: That gives me a lot to think about in terms of how illustrations deepen our understanding of the written text. Curator: Indeed. The imagery reinforces the themes in this canto of Dante's *Inferno*. It presents the intersection of classical mythology and the emerging Renaissance worldview.