Figures worshipping the statue of an armed figure; set design from 'Il Pomo D'Oro' 1668

Mathäus Küsel made this print of a stage design for 'Il Pomo D'Oro', an opera performed in Vienna in 1667. The image depicts an elaborate architectural setting, with people worshipping a statue of an armed figure. This print offers insights into the cultural and political context of 17th-century Europe. The design’s grandeur reflects the opulence of the Habsburg court, a major patron of the arts. The opera itself, and therefore this set, would have been a display of power, intended to impress both local audiences and visiting dignitaries. The act of worship depicted here blends classical and baroque elements, with the statue of the armed figure evoking both ancient Roman deities and contemporary military might. The presence of mythological figures, combined with symbols of imperial authority, underscores the opera's function as a form of political theater. By examining prints like these, alongside historical accounts and musical scores, we can begin to understand the complex interplay between art, power, and society in the early modern period.