Portretbuste van Pompeius of Augustus 1666 - 1671

This is Jan de Bisschop's etching of a portrait bust, made sometime in the mid-17th century. The image depicts either Pompeius or Augustus, two figures of immense power and influence in ancient Rome. De Bisschop, a lawyer by trade, was deeply interested in classical antiquity. During the Dutch Golden Age, there was a significant cultural fascination with the Roman Empire. For the Dutch, Rome represented a model of a successful republic. Reproductions of Roman sculptures, like this one, were popular. They evoked a sense of historical connection and legitimacy. The emotional depth of the portrait is striking. It conveys the weight of leadership and responsibility. The choice to depict a Roman leader reflects the values of the time, where classical virtues were often seen as ideals to aspire to. This print invites us to consider how societies selectively adopt and reimagine historical figures to suit their own cultural and political needs. It's a statement about power, legacy, and the enduring allure of the classical world.