Emperor Tiberius on Horseback 1596

Curator: This is Antonio Tempesta’s "Emperor Tiberius on Horseback." Though undated, Tempesta was active between 1573 and 1630. Editor: What strikes me is the sheer theatricality of it all! The prancing horse, the elaborate armor, it's like a scene from a play. Curator: It's all about projecting power, isn't it? Equestrian portraits were, and are, a powerful way for rulers to visualize their control. Editor: I imagine it's not just about control, but also about crafting a certain image. Tiberius wasn't exactly known as a gentle soul. This feels like a carefully constructed attempt to present him as a strong, classical leader. Curator: Absolutely. The piece exists within a visual language intended to communicate with a specific audience about leadership and authority. Editor: Makes you wonder about the power of images then and now, right? Curator: Indeed. These historical echoes continue to resonate.