Domita Longina, Wife of Domitian 16th-17th century

Curator: This is Aegidius Sadeler II’s rendering of Domita Longina, wife of the Roman Emperor Domitian. Note the ruins in the background—the weight of history seems to press down upon her. Editor: I'm drawn to the sheer craft here. Look at how he uses line to create such intricate detail, from the fabric's patterns to the texture of her hair. It must have been quite a task. Curator: The image certainly embodies the virtues associated with Roman women: piety, chastity, and fidelity, though her life was rather more complex. Her gaze is averted, perhaps a symbol of modesty, but also of internal conflict. Editor: And consider the conditions of production! The engraver's role, their skill, and the economics that supported the making of such images. It's easy to forget the labor behind these seemingly simple prints. Curator: It’s interesting how these images shaped the perception of historical figures, imbuing them with symbolic meaning that persists through the ages. Editor: Indeed. By focusing on the materiality and production, we reveal the social dynamics embedded within the artwork itself. That's what truly excites me.