Plate 5: equestrian statue of Claudius, seen from behind, a naval competition at right in the background, from 'Roman Emperors on Horseback' 1582 - 1594

Adriaen Collaert's engraving, "Plate 5: equestrian statue of Claudius," produced in the late 16th or early 17th century, offers a glimpse into the visual strategies used to construct and disseminate the legacies of Roman emperors. Collaert, working in the context of early modern Europe, draws on classical imagery to shape the viewer’s perception of power and authority. By portraying Claudius on horseback, Collaert taps into the established iconography of the powerful ruler, a convention that transcended time and place. This representation can be seen as participating in the construction of an idealized image, intended to legitimize and reinforce existing hierarchies. The naval competition in the background alludes to Claudius's military achievements, reinforcing the idea of imperial strength. But it's important to remember that these images don’t simply reflect history; they actively create it. In focusing on the achievements of these leaders, it presents an opportunity to reflect on how we approach history. Whose stories are we telling? And whose are we leaving out?