Portret van Tommaso Aniello 1628 - 1670

This engraving, made by Pieter de Jode the Younger, depicts Tommaso Aniello, also known as Masaniello. The image presents us with a man who led a revolt against the ruling Spanish Habsburgs in Naples in 1647. De Jode’s image creates meaning through visual codes tied to power and revolution. Masaniello is portrayed within an elaborate oval frame, reminiscent of those used for royalty. Yet, his simple clothing and fishing net contrast sharply with this regal framing. This contrast highlights the tension between his humble origins and his brief but impactful role as a leader of the Neapolitan people. In the background, we see a detailed depiction of Naples, underscoring the local and immediate impact of Masaniello’s actions. Understanding this image requires research into the socio-political context of 17th-century Naples, Spanish rule, and popular uprisings. The engraving stands as a testament to the complex interplay between art, politics, and social change.