Coat of arms of Cardinal Scipione Borghese (1579–1633) c. 1620 - 1630

This is an anonymous artist's wooden rendering of the Coat of Arms of Cardinal Scipione Borghese, likely created during Borghese’s lifetime. Born into the powerful Borghese family, Scipione was made a Cardinal by his uncle Pope Paul V. The imagery here speaks to the intertwined nature of the church and state. The eagle and dragon reference the Borghese family symbols, asserting lineage and power. Look at how the cherubic figures which frame the coat of arms are both sensual and innocent. It suggests the way the church is trying to appeal to both earthly and divine ideals. The Baroque style is not just decorative but rather a visual language of authority, designed to impress and inspire awe. The interplay between religious and aristocratic identity is on full display, reflecting the complex social dynamics of the period. It asks us to consider the ways power is constructed, maintained, and visually represented.