Portret van Innocentius XI 1676

This is Nicolas de Larmessin's portrait of Pope Innocent XI, made using etching. It gives us insight into the representation of power and identity in the late 17th century. Innocent XI, born Benedetto Odescalchi, was known for his austerity and efforts to reform the Catholic Church. Consider how the print may embody or challenge the ideas of leadership. The choice to create a print, meant for wider distribution, speaks to the strategic importance of image-making in shaping public perception and reinforcing the Church's authority. The artistic choices, from the framing to the detailed rendering of Innocent XI's features and papal garments, invite reflection on the construction of identity. How might his policies and beliefs affect the cultural and social norms of the time? The portrait serves as a lens through which we can examine the intersections of religious authority, artistic representation, and cultural identity in a period marked by significant social and political upheaval.