Elogia virorum literis illustrium... 1575

This engraving of Andrea Doria, a Genoese admiral, was made by Paolo Giovio, around 1550. The central figure of Doria is surrounded by an ornate frame teeming with symbolic creatures and motifs, alluding to his maritime prowess and classical virtues. Consider the figure of Doria himself, rendered as a modern-day Neptune. We see this archetype echoed through time, from ancient Roman sculptures to Renaissance fountains, each iteration carrying the weight of maritime power and divine authority. Such symbolism transcends mere representation, engaging our collective memory and subconscious understanding of power, legacy, and the enduring human connection to the sea. These symbols, while rooted in classical antiquity, experienced rebirths and re-imaginings throughout history, with subtle but significant shifts in meaning. This is not a linear progression but a cyclical return, each era imbuing ancient forms with new relevance.