The Seconda Macchina for the Chinea of 1745: Triumphal Arch for the Return of King Charles of Bourbon to Naples 1745

Louis Joseph Le Lorrain made this print in 1745, depicting the elaborate structure built to celebrate King Charles' return to Naples. More than just decoration, these temporary monuments were carefully designed to communicate political power. Look at the scale and classical architecture; this wasn't just a party, it was a statement. In 18th-century Naples, still under Bourbon rule, visual displays were crucial in shaping public opinion. The triumphal arch, loaded with classical references, links Charles to the glory of past empires, legitimizing his reign. The imagery would have been understood by those in positions of power, reinforcing existing hierarchies. Understanding this print means looking at the political and cultural context of Naples. Contemporary accounts, architectural studies, and records of courtly life would all shed light on the message Le Lorrain was trying to convey. This helps us to understand the power of art as a tool for shaping social and political life.