N. 30 Palermo, Piazza Vittoria c. 1893 - 1903

Giuseppe Incorpora captured this photographic print of Palermo's Piazza Vittoria, inviting us to consider its echoes through time. Dominating the composition, the Porta Nuova stands as a triumphal arch, a motif stretching back to ancient Rome. These arches were erected to celebrate military victories and assert imperial power. Here, in Palermo, it commemorates Charles V's conquest. Consider this form: the arch as a symbol. From the Arch of Titus in Rome to the arches adorning Renaissance cityscapes, it marks moments of triumph and transition. Yet, its meaning has subtly shifted, reflecting changing values and power structures. The arch, rising above the square, engages with the viewer on a deep, subconscious level. It represents not just victory but the cyclical nature of history. We witness in its form, the ebb and flow of power, and the enduring human desire to leave a mark on the world. The triumphal arch, a recurring motif, speaks to our collective memory and the continuous reshaping of historical narratives.