Ornament with Owl Mocked by Day Birds c. 1480

Editor: So, here we have “Ornament with Owl Mocked by Day Birds,” a print from around 1480 by Master FVB. It's all these swirling lines and strange little creatures. I find it so busy, almost chaotic. What’s your take? Curator: Chaotic, perhaps! But I see it more as a dance, a visual poem exploring contrasts. Imagine yourself as that little owl down there, all puffed up, while the world around you-- those cheeky birds, those flamboyant, twisting acanthus leaves – teem with life. Does it make you wonder what this artist wanted to express? Editor: Well, I noticed it's tagged as an allegory. Could it be about something deeper than just an owl being bothered? Curator: Absolutely! Owls have been associated with wisdom and night. So these “day birds” harassing it… well, perhaps it's a commentary on ignorance mocking wisdom, light challenging darkness. Notice how Master FVB used such intricate line work? The pen drawing is very evocative. How do you think he made it feel so dynamic, almost vibrating? Editor: I guess the lines make everything seem like it's moving, never still. Like the leaves are unfurling right before my eyes! And that owl actually looks kind of indignant! Curator: Indignant! I love that. It's like a little drama unfolding on paper. Don't you feel, perhaps, that even in chaos, beauty can emerge? FVB seems to be reminding us that conflict, even mockery, can be part of the larger, grander design of life itself, wouldn't you say? Editor: I think you're right. What seemed like chaos now feels like a story. I'll never look at an owl the same way again! Curator: Me neither. It’s funny how a little bird can open our eyes.