Decamerone Collection
The Decamerone, a literary masterpiece written by Giovanni Boccaccio in the 14th century, continues to captivate readers even today
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The Decamerone, a literary masterpiece written by Giovanni Boccaccio in the 14th century, continues to captivate readers even today. The frontispiece of the Decamerone, engraved in 1492, sets the stage for this collection of tales with its intricate design and attention to detail. It depicts a procession to the garden where the narrators gather to share their stories. One such story is that of Sigismunda and Guiscardo, beautifully portrayed in Francesco Furini's painting from 1645. The heart-wrenching tale of forbidden love and tragedy is further depicted by Joseph Edward Southall's painting of Sigismonda drinking poison in c1897. In William Hogarth's ca. 1761 artwork titled "Time Smoking a Picture, " we see Time himself indulging in leisurely activities while smoking his pipe - perhaps reflecting on the timeless nature of Boccaccio's work. Cimon and Pero's story also finds its place within these pages as seen through various artistic interpretations. From Cymon seated against a column while suckling from Pero kneeling next to him, depicted in an unknown engraving before 1534; James Gillray's satirical portrayal titled "Cymon and Iphigenia" from May 2, 1796; James Basire I's depiction titled "Sigismunda" from May 5, 1790; Benjamin Smith's interpretation titled "Sigismonda (Sigismunda)" from June 4, 1795 - all showcase different aspects of this poignant narrative. Spinneloccio locked up in a chest with his wife and Zeppa seated upon it adds another layer of intrigue to this diverse collection. This scene comes alive through an illustration found within The Decameron itself.