Marcus Curtius on Horseback c. 17th century

Curator: This is "Marcus Curtius on Horseback," an engraving by Crispijn de Passe the Elder. Editor: It’s dramatic! The figure bursts from the page with this imposing bravado, the horse rearing up. Curator: De Passe, active in the late 16th and early 17th centuries, was known for his detailed and allegorical prints. Marcus Curtius was a Roman hero who sacrificed himself by leaping into a chasm to save the city. This print helped transmit the iconic imagery of the hero to a wider audience. Editor: The billowing cloak and feathered helmet—it’s all about the visual cues of heroism. But beneath the surface, what does this image tell us about the societal expectations placed on figures of authority? Curator: A relevant point. The horse is a symbol of power and status, the sword of justice. What does it say that such symbols were needed to reinforce the idea of leadership? Editor: Food for thought! The image embodies the ideal of selfless sacrifice, yet it also reflects the cultural and political forces at play during its creation.