Castel Sant' Angelo 1629 - 1639

Stefano della Bella’s etching, Castel Sant’ Angelo, captures a scene of everyday life set against the backdrop of the famous Roman fortress. Della Bella worked during the Baroque period, a time marked by grand displays of power, religious conflict and social change. Here, the Castel Sant’ Angelo looms, a reminder of both papal authority and the city's long, complex history. But rather than focusing solely on the monument, Della Bella populates the foreground with ordinary people engaged in daily activities along the river. This choice invites us to consider how the lives of the populace intersect with the imposing structures of power. The figures almost seem like witnesses to history, their lives shaped by the grand narratives playing out around them. Della Bella's composition subtly acknowledges the relationship between power and the people. It's an invitation to reflect on the dynamics of urban life and the enduring presence of history in our everyday experiences.