Illustratie bij Canto XI van Tasso's 'Gerusalemme Liberata' 1565 - 1630

Antonio Tempesta created this etching, which illustrates the eleventh canto of Tasso's epic poem 'Gerusalemme Liberata,' at the turn of the 17th century. The image encapsulates the cultural and religious tensions of its time, portraying a Christian siege of Jerusalem with dramatic flair. Tempesta’s work reflects the Counter-Reformation’s emphasis on religious warfare, casting the conflict as a divine struggle against the 'infidel.' The visual codes are striking: Christian knights in classical armor contrast with the turbaned defenders of Jerusalem, reinforcing a sense of cultural and religious difference. The architecture of Jerusalem is depicted as both exotic and formidable, emphasizing the challenges faced by the Christian crusaders. To fully understand this etching, we need to consider the historical context of the Italian Wars, the rise of print culture, and the artistic patronage of the period. Research into contemporary chronicles, religious treatises, and art market records would enrich our understanding. The meaning of this image is contingent on its place within a specific social and institutional framework.