Illustration preceding Book 4 1500

Editor: This is an illustration preceding Book 4, by an anonymous artist. I’m immediately struck by the contrast between the serene figures at the top and the chaotic scenes of suffering below. It feels like a visual representation of different realms. How do you interpret this work? Curator: It's interesting you pick up on that contrast. To me, this feels like a deeply personal vision of the afterlife. The artist isn't just illustrating doctrine, they’re inviting us to consider our own mortality, perhaps with a touch of dark humor. What do you make of the text surrounding the images? Does that give you a clue? Editor: I hadn't considered the text as part of the artistic experience. It does suggest this is a journey, almost like a map through these realms, doesn't it? Curator: Precisely! And maybe a reflection on how we navigate our own earthly journeys.