Wolvenhuid geflankeerd door Faam en Vader Tijd 1680

This engraving, "Wolvenhuid geflankeerd door Faam en Vader Tijd," was made anonymously, and the date is unknown. It presents us with a symbolic scene rich in classical references. The central image is framed by figures of Fame and Father Time, representing the enduring legacy of ancient Rome and Tivoli. The inscription highlights "Vestigi delle Antichita di Roma, Tivoli, Pozzuolo et altri Iuochi," which translates to "Traces of the Antiquities of Rome, Tivoli, Pozzuoli, and other Places." Produced at a time when archaeological discoveries were reshaping understandings of the past, this print reflects a cultural fascination with classical antiquity. The placement of these figures, alongside classical architecture, speaks to the period's investment in understanding its place in the grand sweep of history. The institutional history of archaeology and the art market played a key role in shaping this imagery. The artwork invites us to consider how societies construct narratives about their past and use those narratives to shape their present. By researching the history of archaeology and the reception of classical art, we can gain a richer understanding of its meaning.