Tempel van Portunus te Rome 1675 - 1711

This print shows the Temple of Portunus in Rome. We don't know who made this print, or when it was made. Its existence speaks to the public role of art and the politics of imagery. Temples such as this played an important role in Roman civic life. As physical manifestations of the city's values, they were central to its identity. The temple’s architectural style, with its imposing columns and classical design, evokes the power and sophistication of the Roman Empire. We might consider the cultural references and historical associations conjured up in the minds of those who viewed it. This image offers a glimpse into the relationship between art, religion, and the state. To understand this artwork better, historians can research the social and institutional contexts in which it was made. In doing so, we can gain insight into the complex forces that shaped artistic production and reception in the past.