Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae: The Vatican Obelisque 1550

This print of the Vatican Obelisk was made sometime in the 16th century, and it gives us a glimpse into the cultural fascinations of Renaissance Rome. The obelisk itself was an ancient Egyptian artifact, brought to Rome by Emperor Caligula. But, rather than being displayed as a war trophy, as was often the case with Roman appropriations of foreign culture, it was re-contextualized as a symbol of Christian Rome. It stood in the Vatican as a testament to the triumph of Christianity over paganism. Prints like this one played a crucial role in shaping the perception of Rome's urban landscape. They catered to the growing interest in classical antiquity while also reflecting the power and grandeur of the papacy, they promoted Rome as the heart of Christendom and the successor to the Roman Empire. To truly understand this print, we would need to consult a range of historical sources, from architectural treatises to Papal documents, and explore the complex interplay of religion, politics, and art in the Eternal City.