Prologue; the stage curtain is lifted to reveal a soldier on an elephant surrounded by his army; above Jupiter and his eagle look down on men carrying boulders; set design from 'La Monarchia Latina Trionfante' 1678

This etching by Mathäus Küsel, titled "Prologue," is a set design for the opera "La Monarchia Latina Trionfante," a 17th-century Baroque work. The scene portrays a triumphant soldier riding an elephant, surrounded by his army, while Jupiter and his eagle look down from the heavens. The dramatic composition is characteristic of the period, with a strong emphasis on spectacle and theatrical effect. The use of classical mythology and imagery further underscores the grandeur and power of the subject matter. This detailed drawing highlights the influence of Baroque art and theatre in the 17th century.