Triumph of a Roman Emperor (left side) 1603

Antonio Tempesta made this print, Triumph of a Roman Emperor, sometime between 1570 and 1630, using etching and engraving techniques on paper. This wasn’t just drawing; it was a reproductive medium that could reach a broad audience. The fine lines and intricate details were achieved through painstaking labor, translating the grandeur of the Roman Empire into a commodity. The print shows a meticulously rendered procession, full of people and animals. The repetitive nature of engraving mirrors the mass mobilization of soldiers, the exploitation of resources, and the subjugation of people, all which was required to maintain the empire. The texture of the print, the lines etched into the paper, speak to the labor and resources invested in creating and sustaining power. So, next time you look at a print, remember it is not just an image, but a testament to the means of production that helped shape our world.