Dante laments the quick loss of public interest in Cimabue in the face of Giotto's revolution in art. Cimabue himself does not appear in Purgatorio, but is mentioned by Oderisi, who is also repenting for his pride. The artist serves to represent the fleeting nature of fame in contrast with the Enduring God.

O vanity of human powers,how briefly lasts the crowning green of glory,unless an age of darkness follows!In painting Cimabue thought he held the fieldbut now it's Giotto has the cry,so that the other's fame is dimmed.