Beeld van keizer Karel V te paard c. 1850 - 1863

Charles Clifford captured this image of Emperor Charles V on horseback with photography. The equestrian statue, a trope immortalized by the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, speaks of power and dominion. Here, it is charged with the specific symbolism of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain. The horse itself, a symbol of virility and strength, becomes an extension of the ruler’s authority. Consider how this echoes in the Renaissance, in the bronze equestrian statues, reappearing, yet subtly transformed. In each iteration, the ruler seeks to harness the psychological impact of the image, tapping into our collective memory of leadership. Just as ancient rulers understood, Charles V knew well that carefully constructed images could shape perception and solidify power. The emotional impact of these images, passed down through generations, engages us on a primal level. It is a powerful reminder of the cyclical nature of history, where symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings.