Titelpagina voor Nieuw Rome, van F. Desseine, Amsterdam, 1704 1704

Curator: Here we have the title page for “Nieuw Rome,” or "New Rome," from 1704, by F. Desseine. It’s an engraving. Look at all the detail in this baroque print! Editor: Wow, that’s a lot to take in. It feels very…grand, very formal. Almost aggressively symbolic, like I'm supposed to be impressed and perhaps a little intimidated. All those allegorical figures crammed together. Curator: Yes, the whole point is to convey the grandeur and historical weight of Rome, both ancient and papal. It aims to situate the modern city within this glorious past. Notice how it blends classical motifs with Catholic symbolism. Editor: Definitely seeing the blend. I'm drawn to the central figure—the Pope, I presume? Holding what looks like a miniature...building? It's like he’s showing off Rome’s architectural power. Curator: Precisely. The Pope symbolizes the Church's authority, holding the symbolic representation of Rome as the center of Christendom. The figures on either side are allegories, virtues perhaps, representing key aspects of Rome's identity. Editor: And the poor dog languishing near the base? Or is that something else entirely? Is this some sly critique slipped in by the artist? Curator: That could very well be a symbolic vanquished beast, illustrating Rome’s triumph over paganism and barbarity. Such depictions reinforced specific political and religious claims about Rome's place in the world. This image served as propaganda as much as it was art. Editor: Propaganda with serious flair, though. The detail in the drapery, the way the light falls…even with all the symbolism, there’s undeniable skill in the execution. It’s kind of hard to reconcile. The ambition behind this feels…intense. Curator: It is a powerful image. In its historical context, it acted as a visual assertion of power and legacy in a time when European cities were competing for cultural and political dominance. Editor: Well, I guess it succeeded. It definitely made an impression on me, for better or worse! Now I need to go and get an ice cream! Curator: Indeed! And I’m eager to study the dissemination and public impact of these printed images—truly interesting from my historical perspective.