The Triumphal Bridge and Arch in the Vatican 1641

Curator: This print by Giacomo Lauro depicts “The Triumphal Bridge and Arch in the Vatican.” I find its sharp contrasts quite striking. What's your initial impression? Editor: Its architectural details suggest a celebration of power, of triumphal arches and procession, even with the very clear etching technique on display. The lines and the use of perspective draw the eye, almost forcing a material engagement with the image. Curator: Absolutely. The print creates a fascinating dialogue between religious authority and temporal power, especially considering the historical context of the Vatican and its role in shaping European politics. It brings to the fore issues of identity, specifically the construction of power. Editor: The material rendering is compelling, too. How the etched lines give the illusion of such grand architecture using base materials, it points to the craft and the labor that went into representing that power. Curator: It invites us to consider how these structures, these printed images, perpetuate certain narratives. Editor: Yes, it's a fascinating interplay of labor, material, and the construction of visual power.