Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae: Papal Benediction 1565 - 1585

Giovanni Ambrogio Brambilla created this print, Papal Benediction, as part of a series called Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae, around the turn of the 17th century. Brambilla’s Rome is one of grand architecture and impressive engineering, a city that commands attention as a center of power and religious authority. Look closely at the swarms of people gathered in the piazza; they are framed by the imposing structure of St. Peter’s Basilica, which looms large, symbolizing the overarching influence of the papacy on daily life. This isn't just a depiction of a religious ceremony. It’s a carefully constructed image of social hierarchy, with the Pope elevated, literally and figuratively, above the masses. Brambilla's technique, with its precise lines, captures the essence of an era marked by both religious fervor and intense social stratification. Consider the dynamics of power and the roles of individuals within the vast theatre of Rome. This print invites us to reflect on how societal structures, both then and now, shape our experiences and identities.