Portret van Giovanni Battista Truchi 1625 - 1669

This is Giovanni Battista Bonacina's portrait of Giovanni Battista Truchi, likely made in the mid-17th century. Immediately, the prominent cross draws our eye. This isn’t merely a symbol of faith; it is sartorial, an emblem of status and power. Consider how the cross has journeyed through time. From the simple instrument of execution to a symbol of divine salvation, it appears in various forms across cultures. Here, in the Baroque era, it signifies authority, much like how ancient Roman emperors adopted symbols of power. The cross in Truchi's portrait is not just a religious emblem; it is a statement of earthly power. The subconscious pull of such symbols is undeniable. The cross invokes deep-seated cultural memories, triggering associations with sacrifice, redemption, and, notably, authority. Its cyclical return in art and culture underscores our continued engagement with these timeless themes.