Porta del Popolo te Rome 1747 - 1761

Giuseppe Vasi's etching portrays the Porta del Popolo in Rome, offering a glimpse into the 18th-century urban landscape. The Porta del Popolo served as a ceremonial gateway to Rome. Vasi's detailed rendering invites us to consider the power dynamics inherent in urban design. The gate, with its imposing structure, becomes more than just an entrance; it's a symbol of papal authority and control over the city. The print also shows how gender and class were performed in public spaces. We see men on horseback and groups of people who are possibly nobles as they are wearing long decorative dresses. Each figure contributes to a tableau that reflects the social hierarchies of the time. Vasi's etching encapsulates a moment in Rome’s history, inviting us to reflect on how urban spaces are shaped by the forces of power and identity.