Ruiterstandbeeld van Marcus Aurelius 17th century

Vincent Belly created this print of the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. This rendering captures the political and cultural milieu of its time, reflecting enduring themes of power, ideal leadership, and imperial authority. In this image, Marcus Aurelius is portrayed with the traditional markers of Roman leadership: the toga, the laurel wreath, and the commanding gesture. However, Belly’s work enters into a broader cultural narrative by preserving and circulating the image of this historical figure. The statue itself has become a symbol of not only Roman imperial power, but also of justice and philosophical leadership. Marcus Aurelius was, after all, a philosopher-king. Consider how equestrian statues throughout history have been used as tools to project power and control. This print asks us to think about the narratives we construct around historical figures and how these representations reflect our own values and aspirations. This image invites us to meditate on the relationship between the past and the present.