College of the Propaganda Fide. 1. S. Andrea delle frate. 2. Palazzo Bernini 1741 - 1748

Editor: So this is "College of the Propaganda Fide. 1. S. Andrea delle frate. 2. Palazzo Bernini" by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, made sometime between 1741 and 1748. It's an etching. It has a somewhat austere feel to it; what do you see in this piece? Curator: What strikes me is how Piranesi uses architecture to communicate power, both ecclesiastical and political. The building itself, the College of Propaganda Fide, becomes a symbol. "Propaganda Fide," meaning "propagation of the faith," tells us about the Catholic Church's mission, its colonizing agenda through conversion. Editor: I hadn't considered the title in that light. So, the architecture isn't just beautiful, it’s…loaded? Curator: Exactly. And consider Bernini’s involvement – his palace incorporated here represents the powerful families interwoven with the Church’s authority. The cityscape, seemingly objective, is actually deeply embedded within these power structures. Who is represented here and, crucially, who *isn't*? How does the depiction of this seat of power shape perceptions of authority and influence? Editor: That makes me see the procession of people in front of the building differently. Almost like stage actors… Curator: Precisely! Piranesi invites us to consider the performative nature of power, its constructed reality. He asks us to consider not just the aesthetic but also the ideological. This "cityscape" then morphs into a critical commentary, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Absolutely. Thinking about it in terms of power and agenda has completely transformed my understanding of the piece. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure. It’s always about looking beyond the surface. Considering these contextual elements changes everything.