Titelprent met een monument met titel, geflankeerd door Faam en Vadertje Tijd 1575

This print, made in 1575 by Étienne Dupérac, serves as the title page for a collection of engravings documenting ancient Roman ruins. During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in classical antiquity. Artists like Dupérac played a crucial role in shaping perceptions of history through their work. The print presents a monument flanked by allegorical figures. On the left, Faam, or Fame, reclines amidst ancient relics, symbolizing the glory of Rome, while on the right, Vadertje Tijd, or Father Time, alludes to the passage of time and the enduring legacy of the city. However, these allegorical figures are not neutral. Representations of Fame often evoke themes of power and conquest, while Father Time is a reminder of mortality. The monument’s inscription dedicates the work to Giacomo Buoncompagni, a governor of the Catholic Church, reminding us of the intersection of art, patronage, and religious power in Renaissance society. The print is more than just a record of ruins; it's a carefully constructed narrative about history, legacy, and power. It encourages us to think about whose stories are being told and how they are being framed.