Gezicht op het interieur van de Sint-Paulus buiten de Muren in Rome before 1898

This print shows the interior of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome, created by an anonymous artist. It offers a glimpse into the Basilica, which stands as a powerful symbol of the Catholic Church's historical significance and its role in shaping Western culture. The church's architecture reflects the grandeur and authority of the institution, influencing not only religious practices but also political and social structures. Prints like this circulated widely, serving to disseminate architectural ideas and project institutional power through visual representation. Understanding the history of this image requires us to look at the ways in which institutions, like the Catholic Church, have used art and architecture to assert their influence. By studying historical documents, architectural plans, and other visual materials, we can gain insights into the complex relationship between art, power, and society.