Ruiterstandbeeld van Cosimo I, groothertog van Toscane 1608

Antonio Tempesta created this print of the equestrian statue of Cosimo I, Grand Duke of Tuscany. It depicts a powerful ruler on horseback, a common trope in art history designed to convey authority. The image creates meaning through visual codes. Equestrian statues like this one were often commissioned by rulers to project an image of strength and control. This print made in Rome around 1600, reflects the cultural and political context of the time, specifically the role of the Medici family in Italian politics. The inclusion of the coat of arms and Latin inscriptions further emphasizes Cosimo's status and legacy. Art historians use a range of resources to understand the social and institutional context of artworks like this. By researching the patronage of the Medici family and the political history of Tuscany, we can gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and significance of this image.