Emblem Signifying the Triumph of the World c. 16th century

Editor: This is Étienne Delaune's "Emblem Signifying the Triumph of the World," undated, from the Harvard Art Museums. It has such an intricate, almost theatrical composition, with all these classical figures populating the scene. What narrative do you see unfolding here? Curator: This print reflects the 16th-century fascination with classical antiquity and its visual vocabulary, adapted to express contemporary values. The image, reproduced and circulated, shaped the perception of power and authority. Notice how the architectural elements dominate the composition; what statements do you think the artist is making through these structures? Editor: It feels like a celebration of human achievement, yet also a cautionary tale about the transience of power, with the ruins scattered around. It's a lot to unpack! Curator: Precisely. And how the setting and its representation reflect the socio-political status of the patrons, isn’t that interesting? Editor: Absolutely, I will keep an eye for this kind of message in similar works from now on.