Portret van Francesco Nanni, 39ste Minister Generaal van de franciscaner orde 1710 - 1738

Antonio Luciani’s print portrays Francesco Nani, who served as the Minister General of the Franciscan Order in the late 15th century. The image is a complex visual statement that reflects the cultural and institutional landscape of its time. Notice how Nani is framed within an oval, itself set within a rectangular border that features elaborate ornamentation. Such frames were often used to highlight the importance and status of the sitter and how his role in the Franciscan Order has shaped his identity. The Latin inscription that runs around the portrait and below it provides additional information about Nani's life and accomplishments. This text not only identifies him but also emphasizes his virtues and contributions to the Franciscan Order and the wider society. Understanding this print involves delving into the history of the Franciscan Order, the politics of religious imagery, and the social conditions that shaped artistic production in 18th century Italy. Resources like archival documents, historical texts, and art historical scholarship can illuminate the rich context in which this image was created and received.