Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae: Temple-Altar of Jove, as a Youth 1540 - 1580

Marcantonio Raimondi made this engraving of a temple altar of Jove in the early 16th century in Rome. This print belongs to a series known as *Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae*, or "Mirror of Roman Magnificence", which aimed to document and celebrate the architectural glories of ancient Rome. During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in classical antiquity, which profoundly influenced art and architecture. This print reflects that interest: the temple is based on classical designs, with its symmetrical structure and Corinthian columns. The statue of Jove within the temple is an idealized representation of classical sculpture. The inscription at the bottom indicates this is a representation of a real temple. The *Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae* played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge about classical architecture. Prints like this one circulated among artists, architects, and scholars, helping to shape the artistic and intellectual landscape of the Renaissance. The creation of these prints was supported by institutions eager to promote the cultural authority of Rome as the inheritor of classical tradition. Understanding the social and institutional context of this print requires delving into historical archives and libraries, exploring the patronage networks, and understanding the artistic and intellectual climate of Renaissance Rome.