Portret van Juan Antonio Muratori de Cervia, 52ste Minister Generaal van de franciscaner orde 1710 - 1738

Antonio Luciani created this portrait print of Juan Antonio Muratori de Cervia in the 18th century. De Cervia was the 52nd Minister General of the Franciscan Order, a position of considerable religious and social influence. Luciani's engraving portrays de Cervia with a quiet solemnity, in the traditional garb of his order. But it’s more than just a record of a man's face; it's a carefully constructed representation of power and piety within the Catholic Church. Consider the weight of expectation placed on individuals like de Cervia, who were tasked with upholding religious doctrine and moral authority during a period of immense social and political change in Europe. Prints such as this one played a critical role in shaping perceptions and solidifying the Church's image. They acted as both propaganda and as a means of preserving the legacy of its leaders. The work reflects the emotional and cultural resonance of religious figures, and underscores the entwined nature of personal identity and institutional power.