Aelia Eudocia 1620 - 1664

Stefano della Bella created this small print of Aelia Eudocia, the wife of Emperor Theodosius II, using etching in the 17th century. It illustrates Eudocia's legendary rise to power. Originally named Athenais, she came to Rome to plead a case against her brother, but she was fortunate enough to win the heart of Emperor Theodosius, who married her. This image is not just a portrait; it's a cultural artifact reflecting the values of its time. The print was made in France, in a period when the court of Louis XIV was developing the rigid protocols of aristocratic life. The story told here suggests the power of beauty and intelligence to overcome social barriers, but it also reinforces the hierarchical structure of the time. The image is both an artwork and a piece of social commentary. Understanding this print requires delving into historical texts, court records, and fashion history. It's in this wider context that the art truly speaks.