Achtergevel van Palazzo Farnese after 1655

Giovanni Battista Falda created this print of the ‘Achtergevel van Palazzo Farnese’ without a specified date using etching. Falda, an Italian artist active in the 17th century, captured the architectural details of this iconic building, reflecting the opulence of the Roman elite. This print offers a glimpse into the spatial politics of the era. Palazzos weren't just buildings; they were statements of power and prestige. Falda's meticulous depiction of the Palazzo's rear facade invites reflection on the concept of architectural representation, and its role in shaping perceptions of status and authority. Consider the labor and resources required to construct and maintain such a structure. Who were the people who lived and worked here? What were their stories? Falda’s work prompts us to consider how buildings embed social and economic narratives.