Illustration from Virgil, Paris, Jacques Le Messier, 1532 c. 16th century

Editor: This is an illustration from Virgil, printed in Paris by Jacques Le Messier in 1532. The scene is dominated by a battle, but the figures seem almost ornamental. What’s your take on it? Curator: This image speaks volumes about the relationship between power, knowledge, and representation in the 16th century. Virgil's Aeneid was foundational, but who had access? How does this visual interpretation reinforce or challenge existing hierarchies? Think about the role of the printing press in democratizing knowledge, but also in shaping narratives to serve specific interests.