Kingdom of Pluto; a view of the underworld with Pluto and Proserpina enthroned at center, surrounded by demons; set design from 'Il Pomo D'Oro' 1668

Curator: At first glance, the print titled “Kingdom of Pluto; a view of the underworld with Pluto and Proserpina enthroned at center, surrounded by demons; set design from 'Il Pomo D'Oro'” feels like an overwhelming tapestry of the macabre. Editor: Yes, a dark stage indeed. It evokes the baroque fascination with the underworld, with all its inherent anxieties and the constant interplay between light and shadow. I imagine a fiery chaos that seems to both threaten and fascinate the viewer. Curator: The image, created by Mathäus Küsel in 1668, depicts a set design for the opera 'Il Pomo D'Oro,' which premiered in Vienna. Look at Pluto and Proserpina at the center enthroned; a visual representation of the mythical rulers of the underworld. Editor: It's impossible to separate this work from the spectacle and court power of its time. 'Il Pomo D'Oro', celebrating Leopold I’s marriage, staged imperial authority by depicting elaborate allegories, like a carefully constructed argument of political strength using Greek myths and theatrical technology. Curator: The recurring demon motifs and twisted figures topping the architecture signal to us the moral complexities of the baroque period. Images like this were not merely aesthetic, but a reinforcement of hierarchical power and religious belief, as I see it. Editor: And what of Proserpina? As a forced bride of Pluto, abducted from her mother, she becomes symbolic. Though elevated, isn't she also chained within the structure of this underworld power dynamic? A powerful reflection of gender and agency, if you will, that even royal women might experience. Curator: The drawing style feels intentionally overcrowded. This reflects the Baroque tendency toward complexity, detail, and an appeal to the emotions of an audience that may already believe that everything has symbolic meaning and consequence. Editor: Exactly! It's important to remember the socio-political function art played during the 17th century. 'Kingdom of Pluto', as part of 'Il Pomo D'Oro', functions as a symbol of dominion. However, considering our contemporary viewpoint, it is equally valid to dissect the implicit tensions within this vision. Curator: It's a captivating snapshot of 17th-century sensibilities and artistry. So much encoded belief! Editor: Yes, a constant challenge and inspiration when facing historic material today! It offers much to question.