Landing of the Trojans at the Mouth of Tiberis 1654

Pietro da Cortona created "Landing of the Trojans at the Mouth of Tiberis" during a time when art served as a powerful tool for communicating cultural narratives and reinforcing social structures. The canvas presents the arrival of Trojans in Italy, a foundational myth used to legitimize Roman heritage and power. However, if we peer closely into this classical scene, we might consider the narratives, erasures, and power dynamics it reinforces. How does the triumphant portrayal of Trojan colonization resonate with the experiences of marginalized communities? "Landing of the Trojans at the Mouth of Tiberis" ultimately serves not only as a celebration of Roman origins, but also as a reminder of the complex interplay between history, power, and representation.