A lion, dragon and fox fighting each other, an inscribed banderole above, an oval composition 1510 - 1532

This is Marco Dente’s, "A lion, dragon and fox fighting each other, an inscribed banderole above, an oval composition". It was made sometime between 1515 and 1527 using engraving on a sheet. During the Renaissance, the rise of humanism placed an emphasis on classical knowledge. The symbolic meanings of animals found in ancient texts was fertile ground for artists. Here, Dente brings together three creatures, each laden with cultural baggage. The lion, traditionally a symbol of strength and courage, stands defiant. Facing it, a dragon—a mythical beast often associated with chaos. And finally, a fox, representing cunning and deceit. The banderole above, with the letters 'R', 'G', 'S', 'O', 'E', is yet to be deciphered. The tension in this scene is palpable, as is the challenge of interpreting the artwork. Is Dente offering a meditation on power dynamics? The fragility of peace? The need to be wary of those who appear weak?