Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae: Comodus (Comodus in aedibus Card. Farnesij) 1530 - 1580

This engraving portrays Commodus, the Roman emperor, and it speaks volumes about the enduring power of symbols across time. The figure of Commodus, in a heroic pose, carries a club that immediately evokes the figure of Hercules, the demigod known for his strength and labors. This reference is not coincidental; Commodus, during his reign, cultivated a cult of personality, identifying himself with Hercules to reinforce his image as a powerful and divine ruler. The club, therefore, acts as a signifier of power, heroism, and divine association, linking Commodus to a figure deeply embedded in the Roman psyche. Now, consider how the figure of Hercules, the club-bearer, appears in other contexts: from ancient Greek pottery to Renaissance sculptures. The symbol evolves, yet the underlying themes of strength, struggle, and triumph remain constant, resonating with viewers on a subconscious level. This echoes the non-linear, cyclical progression of symbols, as they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings throughout history.