Luna 

Editor: This print is titled "Luna", an engraving by Sebald Beham, from the Renaissance. I'm struck by the figure’s calm demeanor, contrasting with the swirling clouds around her and the rather unsettling image in the moon she holds. What symbols stand out to you in this piece? Curator: The clouds themselves, though rendered with linear precision, evoke the mists of the unconscious, framing Luna's power. Do you notice the Latin inscription, “Noctis Domina”? "Mistress of the Night." Her dominion is not just celestial, but also psychological. Look closely at the figure and her attributes; what does that remind you of? Editor: I see she’s holding a crescent moon. There's also a banner with "Luna" inscribed, and is that a crab at her feet? And what about that dog-like creature? Curator: Precisely. The crab alludes to Cancer, the zodiac sign ruled by the Moon. That adds a layer connecting her to astrology. And the dog? Dogs, often associated with Diana, Luna's Roman counterpart, can symbolize watchfulness and the hunt. Think about this image as a complete system of symbols – each element contributing to a rich understanding of Luna's power over the night and its hidden aspects. How does that impact your initial reaction to this artwork? Editor: I see what you mean. It's like all these different elements together, the crab, the dog, and the crescent, create this multi-layered idea of Luna's influence, not just on the sky at night, but also on hidden, unseen aspects of life. Curator: Indeed, and even her tranquil pose masks a complex network of cultural associations about the Moon. These early images provide tangible links to ancient modes of thought. I find this is an elegant, yet accessible emblem from the Northern Renaissance. Editor: That's really fascinating. I hadn’t considered how deeply embedded these symbols are and how they continue to speak across time. Thanks for sharing your insight.