Portret van Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus maior 1684 - 1743

Jan Lamsvelt created this print of Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus Major in the late 17th or early 18th century. Scipio, the Roman general who defeated Hannibal, is depicted here in a classical style, complete with laurel leaves. Prints like these offered a way for people to engage with historical figures during a time when access to information was limited, helping to shape cultural memory and understanding of history. What's striking about this particular print is the way it idealizes Scipio, presenting him as a symbol of power and authority. Yet, it also raises questions about how historical narratives are constructed and who gets to be remembered as a hero. Consider, how does the image reflect the values and beliefs of the time in which it was created, and what does it tell us about the relationship between power, representation, and identity?