Portret van Pietro Aretino c. 1597 - 1669

Theodor de Bry made this portrait of Pietro Aretino in the late 16th century, probably as an engraving. Aretino was a writer, playwright, poet and satirist who wielded considerable influence on Renaissance politics and the arts. De Bry's print participates in the cult of the author that grew with the development of print culture and the rise of the printing and publishing industries. Aretino's fur-lined coat and heavy gold chain signify his wealth and status. Inscriptions in the print remind us that 'princes' depend upon Aretino, subtly reinforcing his importance. Prints like this helped to cement Aretino’s reputation beyond his immediate circle. By studying the history of printmaking and the book trade, we can learn more about how authors such as Aretino achieved celebrity in early modern Europe, and how their images circulated among different publics.