Gezicht op de kerk Sint-Jan van Lateranen te Rome 18th century

This is an image of the church Sint-Jan van Lateranen in Rome, made by an anonymous artist. The artwork invites us to reflect on the layered identities present in the depiction of a religious landmark, and the cultural dynamics at play during its creation. It reflects the grandeur of the church while also subtly highlighting the social stratification of the time. The artist presents the church as a backdrop to the daily lives of people from different social strata. On the one hand, the presence of the gentry, arriving in carriages, is a demonstration of power and privilege, while on the other, the common people are represented, lounging around, their attire a world apart. This contrast underscores the complex relationships between power, religion, and social identity that permeated 18th-century European society. The artist’s decision to remain anonymous adds another layer of intrigue. It raises questions about artistic identity, perhaps suggesting a commentary on the status of the artist within the rigid social structure.