Bernardo Barbarigo overseeing the fortification of a conquered town 1556 - 1629

This drawing depicts Bernardo Barbarigo overseeing the fortification of a conquered town. The act of fortification—building walls and reinforcing defenses—is a powerful symbol of dominance. Consider how the motif of the wall is found throughout history. From the defensive walls of ancient Jericho to the Great Wall of China, walls are built as a physical and psychological barrier, representing protection and authority. In modern times, the Berlin Wall, which once divided a city, became a symbol of division. Seen through a psychoanalytic lens, the wall represents the human need to protect oneself. It acts as a boundary between the self and the outside world. The act of fortification speaks to a deep-seated human drive to create order, control, and ensure survival against perceived threats. The image embodies a complex interplay of power, protection, and psychological security. This drawing uses symbolic resonance to resonate with our primal need for safety. The motif of fortification continues to evolve, retaining its emotional impact through time.