Can you conceive any similarity between the characters depicted in classic artworks and contemporary hip-hoppers? Cecilia Azcarate proves that a conversation between hip hop and art before the 16th century is not only possible, but somehow legitimate. Her comparative exercise relies mainly on body adornments such as tattoos and nose-rings, continuing with accessories such as medal pendants and fur collars. I find these connections smart, funny, creative, impressive – which is a 1st class salad!

Left: detail of Christ Blessing surrounded by a Donor Family. Unknown German Painter 1560 – Right: Kanye West

Left: The Adoration of the Magi.Hugo van der Goes. Netherlandish. Late 15th century. Right: Wiz Khalifa

Left: Detail of 1500 Tapiserie – Right: Boychild

Left: Detail of “The Martyrdom of Saint Lawrence,” oil on wood, by Masters of the Acts of Mercy (Austrian, Salzburg, c. 1465) Right: ASAP Ferg

Left: Male Ancestor. 1st–4th century. Mesoamerica. Nayarit  – Right: Young Thug

Left: Quentin Massys. Ecce Homo-1520 – Right: 2 Chainz