Camee met de verheerlijking van Germanicus 1616 - 1657

Paulus Pontius created this print called, "Camee met de verheerlijking van Germanicus" in the 17th century. During this period, artists often drew upon classical antiquity to legitimize the power of the state. Here, Pontius depicts Germanicus, a celebrated Roman general, in a triumphant pose, surrounded by allegorical figures. The classical style, with its emphasis on heroism and idealized forms, conveys a sense of authority and timelessness. Yet, looking closer, we can see how this celebration of power also reflects the social hierarchies of the time. The figures are predominantly male, and the composition reinforces traditional gender roles. This print invites us to consider the ways in which art can perpetuate certain social and political ideologies. But it also raises important questions about who is included and excluded from these narratives of power. How do such images impact our understanding of history and identity?