Romulus en Remus bij de wolvin 1659

Editor: This is "Romulus and Remus with the She-Wolf," an engraving from 1659 by Louis de Châtillon, housed at the Rijksmuseum. I find it fascinating how the central image is framed by these robust architectural and figurative elements. What story does the imagery tell, beyond just the founding myth of Rome? Curator: The framing itself is a narrative. Notice how the architectural elements seem to both contain and present the central scene. The muscular figures holding up the structure – these aren't just decoration. They echo the strength and resilience associated with Rome's origins. The faces embedded in the garland above present both laughter and tragedy. It encapsulates human emotions linked with grand historical narratives. What feelings does it stir within you? Editor: I suppose it adds to the grandness, almost as if this pivotal moment is being put on display, or immortalized. Curator: Precisely. Consider the she-wolf, Lupa. Beyond her literal representation, she's a powerful symbol of nature nurturing culture. Her raw instinct contrasts beautifully with the implied civilization that Romulus and Remus will found. She is a wild maternal icon of a new empire. Does the Latin inscription add further understanding to the image? Editor: “Injured, not killed, we are nourished." It suggests survival against all odds, and perhaps the inherent strength within Rome’s beginnings. I never thought of it that way before. Curator: See how a single image is able to resonate so deeply with interconnected concepts. Editor: Thank you! I now perceive the interplay of raw nature and nascent civilization so much better.