Saint Cecilia. Vita et matyrium S. et gloriosae...Rome, ca. 1590 1590

This engraving of Saint Cecilia, made in Rome around 1590 by Bernardino Passeri, speaks volumes about the Catholic Church’s self-representation during the Counter-Reformation. Framed by standing figures of popes and an inscription detailing Cecilia's martyrdom, the image is more than a devotional object; it's a statement of institutional power. Made during a period of intense religious conflict, the print emphasizes the authority of the papacy. The heraldic shields and Latin text reinforce the Church’s historical claims, while the cherubic figures soften the message, appealing to piety. Understanding this artwork requires considering the social conditions that shaped its production. The Counter-Reformation was driven by the Catholic Church attempting to reinforce its authority and combat Protestantism, and prints like this were used as propaganda. By looking into archival records of religious orders and publishing houses, we can better understand the role of art in shaping religious identity during this tumultuous time.