Portrait of Catherine II of Russia 1780

Fyodor Rokotov captured Catherine II of Russia in oil, presenting a tableau rich with symbols of imperial power. Here, the scepter, orb, and ermine cloak aren't mere ornaments; they echo emblems of authority stretching back to antiquity. The scepter, for instance, reminiscent of the Roman fasces, symbolizes governance and justice. We see this motif echo through time, from ancient rulers to medieval monarchs, each adapting the symbol to cement their legitimacy. The heavy drapery of the red curtain, a theatrical flourish, is reminiscent of the stage, suggesting power is, in part, a performance. Consider the emotional weight—the subconscious allure—of such displays. Rokotov masterfully plays on our collective memory, stirring deep-seated notions of leadership and grandeur. These symbols don’t exist in a vacuum. They persist, resurface, and evolve, continuously engaging with our ever-shifting understanding of power and authority.