Titelprent bij een reeks voorstellingen van paleizen te Rome 1699

Editor: This is "Titelprent bij een reeks voorstellingen van paleizen te Rome," a print made in 1699 by Alessandro Specchi. It's a title page, so mostly text. It has such a formal feeling to it. I’m struck by how the type is so deliberately arranged within the frame. What jumps out at you? Curator: Well, you know I’m a sucker for the way old typefaces can almost whisper stories. Imagine this: a booming voice reading this aloud to announce a grand tour of Rome's palaces, wouldn't that be marvelous? It's so very Baroque – the theatricality of the “new theatre of palaces,” the self-important dedication to the Pope. The very notion of presenting architecture as theater... that's pretty fantastic, isn't it? Makes me want to strike a pose. Editor: A theatrical pose in front of architecture? I can picture it. But is there anything beyond the presentation that grabs you? Curator: For sure! It's also about power. The explicit mention of papal approval – that "Privileggio del Sommo Pontefice" – says so much about artistic production in that era. And Specchi’s role, as both designer and engraver, is crucial. This isn’t just documentation; it's a carefully constructed performance of artistry and authority. Who gets to build? Who gets to record it? Who gets to *see* it? It all matters. Does that give you a little bit to think about? Editor: Definitely. I never really thought of a title page holding so much context, I thought that these were mundane. It has given me much to think about, thank you. Curator: Exactly, this title page, is the opening scene of a historical drama. Glad to be of service.