Façade of the church of San Lorenzo in Florence, decorated with the emperor's arms, four figures of death flanking the three entrances, the two in center on horseback, a large angel above central door, from 'Ceremonies for the Funeral of Emperor Ferdinand II' (Funérailles de l'empereur Ferdinand II) 1637

Stefano della Bella created this print, titled "Facade of the Church of San Lorenzo in Florence," as part of a series documenting the elaborate funeral ceremonies for Emperor Ferdinand II. Amidst the pomp and solemnity, we see how death and power were intertwined in the 17th century. The facade, draped with the emperor's arms and flanked by figures of death, is a stark reminder of mortality's reach, even for those in power. Della Bella captures the emotional weight of the event, while subtly commenting on the spectacle of imperial mourning. The artist uses the traditions of royal portraiture to develop a narrative around the representation of power, exploring the spectacle of state events. The print serves not only as a historical record, but also as a reflection on the performative aspects of grief and the symbolic language of political authority. This piece invites us to contemplate the relationship between life, death, and legacy.