Obelisk in de tuin van Ciriaco Mattei 1576 - 1618

Giovanni Maggi made this etching titled Obelisk in the Garden of Ciriaco Mattei in Rome. It offers a glimpse into the visual culture of the late 16th century, connecting themes of power, antiquity, and social status. The obelisk, with its Egyptian origins, served as a symbol of imperial authority, especially for Rome. The inscription "S.P.Q.R." refers to the Senate and People of Rome, evoking the power and grandeur of the Roman Empire. By placing this monument in his garden, Ciriaco Mattei was making a statement about his own status and wealth. The formal garden, statues, and architectural details all speak to the cultural values of the Italian Renaissance and the ways in which wealthy families sought to emulate the achievements of the classical world. By studying documents from the period we can better understand the social and institutional context in which this image was made and consumed, revealing the complex interplay of art, power, and social identity in early modern Italy.