The Decameron, Second Tale for the Ninth Day 1913 - 1915

Editor: Here we have Benvenuto Disertori's woodcut print, "The Decameron, Second Tale for the Ninth Day." The stark black and white contrast is striking. What can you tell me about the cultural context of this image? Curator: Disertori's work reflects the revival of interest in early Italian literature, like Boccaccio's *Decameron*, in the early 20th century. How do you think this imagery engages with or challenges prevailing social norms of its time? Editor: It feels very stylized, perhaps even a critique of idealised beauty standards through its simplified forms. Curator: Precisely! The artist uses the narrative to comment on contemporary society, using the past to negotiate present values. It highlights the ongoing power of art to shape, reflect, and even challenge cultural perceptions. Editor: I see, so it is much more than a simple illustration. Curator: Exactly! It's about how art functions as a public voice, influencing societal dialogues.