Sepulchrum Adriani (Views of Ancient Roman Temples and Arches) 1535 - 1540

This small print, Sepulchrum Adriani, whose artist is unknown, shows a detailed view of Roman architecture rendered on paper. During this period, Rome was a powerful symbol, linked to ideas of authority and cultural legacy. The depiction of ancient Roman temples and arches reflects a broader cultural interest in classical antiquity. The print revives the grandeur of the Roman Empire, a society built on the subjugation of others, the enforcement of gender roles, and the spectacle of power. Yet, as we contemplate the image, consider whose stories are being told and whose are missing. This print serves not only as a historical document but also as a reminder of the complex ways in which societies construct their identities. It captures a moment in which the past is reimagined through a particular lens, shaping cultural memory.