After a Few Days of Seige with the French Army, Francesco I d'Este Takes Prossession of Mortara, The Last of his Great Victories, from L'Idea di un Principe ed Eroe Cristiano in Francesco I d'Este, di Modena e Reggio Duca VIII [...] 1659

This engraving by Bartolomeo Fenice commemorates Francesco I d’Este’s capture of Mortara, as part of a larger project exalting the Duke as a Christian hero. Made in Modena, Italy, this print comes from a time when noble families used visual imagery as a form of political propaganda. We see how the image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. The receding orthogonal lines, the distant explosions, and the organized troops all contribute to the impression of a successful siege. This triumphant depiction serves to legitimize the Duke's power and celebrate his military achievements. When considering the public role of art, this print highlights the intricate relationship between power, patronage, and artistic production. By exploring the historical context and institutional history surrounding this work, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social conditions that shaped its creation and reception. It serves as a reminder that art is often contingent on its social and institutional context.