Portret van paus Gregorius XIV, zittend 1590 - 1591

This is Nicolaus van Aelst’s engraving of Pope Gregory XIV, created during a period of religious and political tension in Europe. Van Aelst, active in Rome, captured the Pope in a moment that transcends mere portraiture, reflecting the complex power dynamics of the era. The Pope is depicted seated, adorned in papal garments, his hand gesturing in what seems like a blessing or perhaps a command. Consider the weight of this image, produced in a time defined by the Reformation and Counter-Reformation. The papacy was not just a religious institution but a political force, deeply embroiled in the affairs of states and the lives of ordinary people. The texture of the engraving, the lines that define the Pope's face, and the folds of his clothing all contribute to a sense of gravitas. It serves as a reminder of the intersection between spiritual authority and worldly power, inviting us to reflect on the legacies and responsibilities inherent in such roles.