The dramatic moment of realization when the "Aspidochelone" (fabled sea creature) suddenly plunged into the watery depths. In this medieval bestiary, the whale is understood allegorically as the wily devil by fooling sailors by having its back just above the water line, and lying motionless, into believing it was an island which ultimately plunged them into the depths of Hell.
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Two Fishermen on an Aspidochelone, c.1270, Tempera colors, gold leaf, and ink on parchmentUnknown, French Illuminator (13th - Century) |
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The dramatic moment of realization when the "Aspidochelone" (fabled sea creature) suddenly plunged into the watery depths. In this medieval bestiary, the whale is understood allegorically as the wily devil by fooling sailors by having its back just above the water line, and lying motionless, into believing it was an island which ultimately plunged them into the depths of Hell. |
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