Illustration preceeding Second Decades c. 15th century

Curator: The first thing I notice is the intricate detail, despite the somewhat crude rendering. It feels very stylized and symbolic. Editor: Indeed. This illustration precedes the Second Decade of Livy's *History of Rome*. It's an anonymous work currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. Curator: Knowing it’s connected to Livy gives weight to the imagery. The figures are archetypal, almost like playing cards, representing the grand narrative of Roman history. Editor: Precisely. The scenes within the frame – the rituals, battles – are loaded with cultural significance, embodying the values and ideals of the Roman Republic. We see civic duty, military prowess… Curator: And even the frame itself, adorned with faces and creatures, speaks to a world teeming with meaning, a universe reflecting the Roman worldview. It is a potent reminder of Rome's enduring symbolic power. Editor: Yes, a powerful encapsulation of historical and cultural memory. Looking at the cultural lens really highlights the importance of imagery.