Portret van Caravaggio 1648 - 1711

This is Etienne Baudet's portrait of Caravaggio, an engraving. The laurel wreath encircling the portrait symbolizes triumph and immortality, echoing ancient Roman customs where victors and emperors were crowned with laurel. Caravaggio holds what appears to be a maulstick, used to steady the hand while painting, signifying his artistic vocation. Yet, this object transcends its practical function. Think of the scepter, a symbol of power, or the caduceus, entwined with snakes, representing medicine and commerce. These objects gain symbolic weight through association and cultural memory. Similarly, the maulstick here transforms into an emblem of Caravaggio's creative power. Consider how gestures and objects recur across centuries, imbued with new meanings yet still resonant with echoes of the past. Baudet's portrait captures not just an image, but also the enduring spirit of artistic creation. It evokes a powerful, subconscious connection between the viewer and the subject, inviting us to reflect on the cyclical nature of artistic legacy.