Jupiter, from 'Game of Mythology' (Jeu de la Mythologie) 1644

Stefano della Bella created this tiny print of Jupiter as part of his ‘Game of Mythology’ sometime in the 17th century. During this period, mythological themes were frequently used to legitimize power and express cultural values, especially those of the aristocracy. Here, Jupiter sits enthroned on an eagle, a symbol of his power, amid swirling clouds. He’s depicted as a strong male figure, complete with flowing hair and beard, holding a thunderbolt aloft – a clear indication of his dominion over the heavens and earth. Yet, consider the context: this commanding image was made during a time of significant social hierarchy, where ideas about masculinity and power were very much tied to class. Della Bella, working under the patronage of powerful families like the Medici, was part of a system that upheld these ideals. This artwork then, isn't just a depiction of a god; it’s a reflection of the era’s power dynamics, seen through the lens of mythology. It invites us to think about how images of strength and authority are constructed and what they tell us about the societies that create them.