Koepeldecoratie met figuren met wierookvaten en engelen 1695

Francesco Faraone Aquila created this ornamental print, “Dome Decoration with Figures with Incense Holders and Angels,” in the 17th or 18th century. During this period, religious art was often used as a tool to reinforce institutional power, dictating how the divine was represented. Yet, within these established visual languages, artists sometimes negotiated their own perspectives. Note the figures with incense, and the array of angels, traditional symbols of faith and reverence, which create a sense of awe and reverence, characteristic of Baroque religious art. Aquila’s image is interesting to observe because prints like this one aided in the dissemination of religious iconography across Europe. Consider how the upward gaze required to view such a dome might evoke a sense of humility. In its own time, it likely prompted viewers to reflect on their place in the world, and perhaps even aspire to spiritual heights. In this way, the artwork reflects the intertwined nature of personal faith and public religious expression.