Standbeeld van keizer Septimius Severus 1636 - 1647

Curator: Luca Ciamberlano's engraving, dating from 1636-1647, depicts the "Statue of Emperor Septimius Severus." What strikes you upon first viewing this piece? Editor: The figure seems so imposing. The rendering, while on a modest sheet of paper, carries an unexpected weight. The hatching creates a wonderful sense of volume, but overall, there’s something unsettling about its static pose, caught between motion and paralysis. Curator: That perceived tension might be due to Septimius Severus himself. Remember he was a Roman emperor of Berber origin who rose to power during a period of intense political instability. His reign, though ultimately stabilizing, was marked by military expansion and a consolidation of imperial power. The rigid posture, therefore, mirrors the weight of leadership in tumultuous times. Editor: Indeed, and this translation into ink does add to the feel, capturing a marble presence through the lines. I am also intrigued by how Ciamberlano handled the drapery. See how it falls, emphasizing both the idealized form and, oddly enough, the almost coarse texture. Semiotics of status abound. Curator: Absolutely, the clothing and his raised hand holding what looks to be a scroll act as powerful signifiers, reinforcing the emperor’s authority. Considering his North African heritage, it's tempting to explore how representations of Roman emperors were deliberately crafted to project power, often erasing or glossing over the diverse backgrounds of rulers like Severus in favour of a homogenized imperial image. The gaze and that specific Roman profile are key! Editor: Precisely! Viewing art from previous epochs offers the possibility of studying the semiotics of historical status through clothing and posture, or also by the use of lines of shadow in engravings, where a message or feeling is translated into art with only a minimum number of resources. Curator: I agree. This piece prompts reflection on how identities are curated and how imperial narratives are visually constructed. It makes us question who is included and, more importantly, who is excluded in the story this statue tells. Editor: Ultimately, whether analyzing line and form or dissecting socio-political context, grappling with Ciamberlano's Septimius Severus proves a fascinating journey.