Book XXIII.41. Titus Octavius, sailing from Lilybaeum to Africa, ravages the Carthaginian territories {Tertiae Decadis Liber Tertius p. CXIX} 1493

Editor: This intriguing woodcut, titled "Book XXIII.41...", depicts a naval battle. The choppy waves and the intensity of the scene make it seem chaotic and even a bit terrifying. What stands out to you when you look at it? Curator: It's evocative, isn’t it? I’m drawn to how the artist, despite being anonymous, captured the drama of ancient warfare with such simple lines. It feels almost childlike, yet there's a palpable sense of urgency. Imagine being on one of those boats! Do you think that the simple representation diminishes or enhances the intensity? Editor: I think the starkness actually makes it more powerful. Thanks, I hadn't considered that. Curator: Exactly, sometimes less is more. It leaves room for our imaginations to fill in the blanks, to conjure the sounds and smells of the battle.