Titus crowned by Victory in a quadriga driven by Roma c. 16th century

Editor: So, this print by Pietro Santi Bartoli, titled *Titus crowned by Victory in a quadriga driven by Roma*, it feels like a triumphant scene, but there's also a sense of solemnity. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, I see a fascinating blend of power and submission, don’t you think? Titus is being crowned, yes, but he's also being led. It’s a carefully constructed visual narrative, reflecting the Roman ideal of emperors being both rulers and servants of the state. Editor: That’s interesting. I hadn’t considered the idea of submission within victory. Curator: It's a paradox, isn’t it? Bartoli captures that tension beautifully. These grand processions were as much about reminding the populace of Roman might as they were about celebrating the individual's accomplishment. Editor: I see that now. It’s less a simple celebration and more of a carefully orchestrated piece of political theater. Curator: Precisely! That’s the magic of art, isn't it? Always layers to peel back.