Leonardo Loredano en Johannes Farnese 1729 - 1756

Paul Friedrich Engelbrecht produced this print of Leonardo Loredano en Johannes Farnese sometime in the 18th century. The print shows two framed portraits, each with ornate, Baroque-style borders, these likely functioned as allegories for leadership and power. On the left, Leonardo Loredano, Doge of Venice, is represented by an elephant. The elephant was a symbol of wisdom and strength, qualities associated with good governance. Opposite him, Johannes Farnese, Duke of Camerino, is symbolized by a landscape with wheat sheaves, signifying prosperity and abundance under his rule. Produced in the context of the European Enlightenment, this print reflects the era’s interest in reason, order, and classical ideals. These visual codes speak to the socio-political values of the time, where leadership was often associated with virtues and prosperity. By examining period texts and political documents, we can better understand the print's intended audience and its contribution to the construction of leadership ideals during the 18th century.