Stedenmaagd van Venetië 17th century

Editor: This print from the 17th century is titled *Stedenmaagd van Venetië,* made by an artist known as Monogrammist VF. It's an engraving, so there's this delicate quality, even though the image itself feels grand, almost theatrical. What do you see when you look at it? Curator: My eyes immediately focus on the central figure, the city maiden herself. She's seated on a lion, the symbol of Venice's patron saint, Saint Mark, in the sea itself, holding a scepter, which of course speaks of power. Venice saw itself as powerful and prosperous. I can also observe that the whole scene is framed by these allegorical figures with shields referring to the cities under Venetian control such as Padova and Brescia. Have you noticed these elements of visual language? Editor: I did notice them, though I didn't fully realize their symbolic importance. So, it's a message about Venetian dominion, projected through a collection of familiar emblems? Curator: Precisely! It presents Venice not merely as a city, but as an idea – an embodiment of strength, justice, and prosperity, with that lion both her support and a representation of her strength. This symbol anchors the cultural memory, conveying Venetian power through time. I would suggest focusing on those repeated elements and motifs for a better grasp on their perception of identity. What’s your take on that framing device with cherubic figures? Editor: It gives it this feeling of being divinely sanctioned, or eternally protected somehow. It's interesting how all these symbols come together to form an ideology. Thanks for clarifying it. I'll definitely have that in mind when observing other artworks. Curator: Indeed. Every element reinforces that story; an artistic choice carefully designed for lasting impact. I am happy you have gained an additional interpretative layer.