Map of Rome, upper right part 1634

Curator: Here we have Matthäus Greuter’s "Map of Rome, upper right part," an engraving dating from 1634. Its delicate lines on aged paper evoke a profound sense of history. What strikes you initially about its formal qualities? Editor: The starkness, the almost militaristic precision of the layout. It feels less like a guide and more like an assertion of power—land ownership, control of urban space. Curator: That's astute. Greuter’s mastery is evident in the engraving's composition. The geometric forms—the clear, precise rendering of streets and buildings—establish a visual order, a hierarchical structuring of space that echoes the city's socio-political framework. Look at how line weight and density create areas of focus. Editor: Indeed. Considering the period, the Church held significant sway. How might the map reflect Rome’s role as a center of religious and political power at the time? What narrative does the architecture of its most dominant structure tell? Curator: I think you raise a vital point. The buildings are delineated sharply, with attention paid to elevation and detail that serves both cartographic and aesthetic purposes. The walls clearly communicate defense and order. Editor: Precisely. What narratives might be excluded or hidden beneath this seemingly objective rendering of space? Who is truly represented in this portrayal of power? Curator: A fruitful question. The lack of figures suggests an emphasis on the grand design rather than the daily lives of inhabitants, it presents an idealized and somewhat detached view. Editor: It's as much a statement of control and idealized power than simply about mapping its geography, perhaps? This engraving, while beautiful in its craft, served a purpose embedded within its time. Curator: Perhaps you're right. Ultimately, the print testifies to Rome's enduring legacy, skillfully capturing its unique physical form, even as it underscores broader social questions. Editor: Well, examining this aged piece has allowed me to really see this landscape. Thank you!