Façade van het paleis van kardinaal Francesco Nerli after 1655

Giovanni Battista Falda created this print of the façade of Cardinal Francesco Nerli's palace in Rome using etching. This image offers a glimpse into the world of Baroque Rome, reflecting the power and prestige of the Catholic Church. The palace itself, designed by architect Domenico Fontana, stands as a visual testament to Cardinal Nerli’s status. The print served as a tool for disseminating architectural ideas and celebrating the achievements of powerful figures within the church. The social conditions of 17th-century Rome were deeply intertwined with the patronage of the arts by religious institutions. Cardinals like Nerli commissioned lavish buildings and artworks to project an image of authority. Prints such as this were crucial in shaping the perception of these individuals and their role in society. Understanding the context in which this print was made requires looking into sources that can reveal the history of Roman patronage and urban development.