Portret van keizer Nero 1557 - 1559

Joos Gietleughen created this print of Emperor Nero, rendered in ink, as an illustration for a book. The circular portrait, framed by classical lettering, evokes the visual language of ancient coins, a common method through which powerful figures circulated their likeness. While Gietleughen lived centuries after Nero, this image speaks to the enduring power of portraiture in shaping historical narratives. Nero was known for his decadence and cruelty. This engraving, however, presents a more measured view, perhaps reflecting the shifting interpretations of historical figures across time. It invites us to consider how depictions of power are constructed and how they influence our perceptions of identity, leadership, and history itself. The portrait freezes a single interpretation, yet the figure of Nero remains open to constant re-evaluation.