A row boat leading a ship to shore while a large group of figures looks on from the coast and along the bridge at center; a deity appears in the sky at upper left; set design from 'Il Fuoco Eterno' 1674

Mathäus Küsel made this drawing of a stage set design with pen and black ink in the 17th century. The design presents a classical scene with a large crowd observing a boat approaching the shore, while a deity appears above, showering light upon the scene. This elaborate staging reflects the increasing importance of theater and spectacle in the cultural life of the European courts. In the 17th century, theater was not just entertainment, it was a political tool. These performances often conveyed messages about power, legitimacy, and divine right. The presence of a deity emphasizes the ruler's connection to the divine, reinforcing their authority. Moreover, the dense crowd suggests a harmonious, ordered society under the ruler's control. Understanding this drawing requires us to consider the history of theater, as well as the social and political function of art. By studying historical records, playbills, and accounts of court life, we can begin to understand how images like this one were used to shape public perception and reinforce the social order.