Francesco I d'Este Combines Forces with The Republic of Venice and Genoa Against the Ottoman Turks, from L'Idea di un Principe ed Eroe Cristiano in Francesco I d'Este, di Modena e Reggio Duca VIII [...] 1659

This print by Bartolomeo Fenice, shows Francesco I d'Este uniting with Venice and Genoa against the Ottoman Turks. The lighthouse, a prominent symbol here, serves as a beacon of guidance, and illuminates a path toward safety and awareness. This motif echoes through time and across cultures. Think of the Pharos of Alexandria, one of antiquity’s greatest architectural achievements, or the many depictions of lighthouses in maritime paintings. The lighthouse has been a symbol of hope, warning, and vigilance through the ages, guiding sailors safely to port. Here, it also embodies a collective subconscious desire for security and direction. The beacon is a reminder of humanity's eternal struggle against the unknown, a force that still resonates deeply, stirring a sense of hope in the face of overwhelming odds. A truly powerful, cyclical image.