Plate Thirteen of Triumph of Death, Triumph of Divinity, Triumph of Poverty 1780

Editor: This is Plate Thirteen of Triumph of Death, Triumph of Divinity, Triumph of Poverty by Christian von Mechel. It’s an engraving, and the procession is pretty imposing. What strikes you about this work? Curator: It’s a fascinating piece reflecting the complex sociopolitical climate of the late 18th century. Consider the "triumphs" depicted. Are they truly celebrations, or critiques of power structures? How do these classical allusions intersect with the burgeoning Enlightenment ideals and the inequalities that persisted? Editor: So, it’s more than just a historical scene? Curator: Precisely. It prompts us to examine whose triumphs are being celebrated, and at whose expense. The composition itself invites us to question the narratives of power and oppression. What did we learn today? Editor: That it’s important to consider who is being represented and who is being left out.