Printer's Mark (?) c. 18th century

Curator: This intriguing print, entitled "Printer's Mark (?)," is an anonymous work held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It has such a fervent quality. The figures, especially the central one on the cloud, evoke a sense of heavenly protection and intervention. Curator: The circular composition and Latin inscription "Brixiae Protectores" suggest this was likely a printer's emblem, declaring the city of Brescia's protectors. Editor: The saints, bearing their swords and palms, are a strong assertion of spiritual authority. Note the haloed figures above the city—a very powerful symbol of safeguarding. Curator: Indeed. Its public role was to imbue the printed word from this publisher with a sense of divine approval, associating their work with religious and civic virtues. Editor: The continuity of these symbols, their capacity to reassure and embolden, is really remarkable in historical prints like this.