Illustration LV c. 15th century

Editor: This is Illustration LV, an anonymous artwork at the Harvard Art Museums. I’m struck by its direct, almost storybook quality. What kind of narrative do you think it's conveying? Curator: Note how the figures are positioned. On the left, we have a contemplative figure, almost withdrawn, contrasted with the central rider and the group on the right, engaged in what seems a transaction or agreement. Do these groupings evoke any feelings? Editor: It makes me think of a journey, with different stages of life or perhaps a moral choice represented in these separate groups. Curator: Exactly! The rider, centered, becomes a pivotal figure navigating potential paths. Consider how such images functioned in their time, reminding viewers of choices and consequences. Editor: So it's less about a specific story and more about universal themes represented through symbols? That's really interesting! Curator: Precisely. Recognizing these symbols, their placement, unveils layers of meaning about social and spiritual values.