Marcus Licinius Crassus uitgelachen door Parthische afgezanten 1800

Ludwig Gottlieb Portman made this print, depicting Marcus Licinius Crassus being ridiculed by Parthian envoys, sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. The scene illustrates a moment of cultural and political tension. Crassus, a Roman general, is shown at a disadvantage, mocked by representatives of the Parthian Empire. Portman's print reflects a broader European fascination with classical history, filtered through the lens of contemporary power dynamics. The artist employs a neoclassical style, evident in the figures' poses and the architectural setting, which was fashionable during this time. Prints such as this circulated widely, serving as both historical records and vehicles for political commentary. They helped to shape public perceptions of historical events, often reinforcing existing social and political norms. To understand its full impact, we might explore the print's production context, its reception by audiences, and its relationship to broader cultural trends. The study of prints and their circulation can yield valuable information. The meaning of art always depends on its social and institutional context.