Geschiedenis van de stad Rome 1716 - 1761

Pieter Tanjé created this engraving, "History of the City of Rome," in the 18th century. The composition is divided into distinct registers, each teeming with allegorical figures and classical allusions. There's a dynamic interplay between the earthly and the divine, achieved through the use of contrasting light and shadow. The upper register features ethereal beings floating amidst clouds, while below, scenes of Roman history unfold. Tanjé masterfully employs line and texture to differentiate these realms, creating a visual hierarchy that guides the viewer's eye through the narrative. This engraving, with its dense symbolism, invites us to reflect on the rise and fall of civilizations and the enduring power of history itself. The artist uses semiotics to interpret the visual components to engage with new ways of thinking about space, perception, power, and representation. Notice how the allegorical figures and classical symbols are not just aesthetic elements but also serve as cultural codes. This work challenges us to consider how art can both preserve and question the stories we tell about ourselves.