Vase Placed in Center of a Tempietto with Lattice, an Arch at the Top from Veelderleij niewe inventien van antijckesche sepultueren diemen nou zeere ghebruijkende is met noch zeer fraeije grotissen en compertimenten zeer beqwame voer beeltsniders antijcksniders schilders en all constenaers...Libro Secundo 1557

This engraving, Vase Placed in Center of a Tempietto with Lattice, an Arch at the Top, was created by Johannes van Doetecum I in the 16th century. During this time, the Dutch Republic was asserting its cultural identity amidst religious and political upheaval. Here, Doetecum re-imagines the classical. Look closely, and you'll see how the vase becomes a stage. The Tempietto, laden with figures and symbols, offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between classical ideals and the social realities of the time. Doetecum masterfully weaves together elements of humanism, religion, and the decorative arts. This engraving invites us to consider the symbolic weight of ornamentation, and the power of art to reflect and shape cultural values. What stories do you see in this scene?