Portret van kardinaal Giuseppe Pozzobonelli after 1743

Marc Antonio dal Re created this print, "Portret van kardinaal Giuseppe Pozzobonelli," a formal depiction of power and status through the lens of the 18th-century Roman Catholic Church. During this era, religious figures wielded significant influence, shaping not only spiritual life but also political and social structures. Dal Re captures Pozzobonelli in his cardinal's attire, complete with the distinctive cross, underscoring his high rank and authority within the Church. His direct gaze and the document he holds suggest a man of purpose and intellect, deeply involved in the affairs of his office. Consider, however, that while this portrait celebrates Pozzobonelli's individual achievements, it also perpetuates the institutional power dynamics of the time. The Church's role in reinforcing societal hierarchies, and the complex interplay between spiritual authority and earthly power, invite reflection on the experiences of those marginalized or excluded by such structures. This portrait serves not just as a record of a man, but as a prompt to explore the broader historical narratives of power, faith, and identity.