Standbeeld van Columbus, Genua 1898

This photograph by Fratelli Alinari depicts the statue of Christopher Columbus in Genoa. The image offers insight into the cultural and political values of the late 19th century. Columbus, the famous explorer, stands atop an elaborate monument, his gaze directed towards the horizon. The statue is adorned with allegorical figures and reliefs, visually encoding the narrative of discovery and progress. Made in Italy, this image reflects the rise of nationalism and colonialism during this period. The statue functions as a symbol of national pride and European expansionism. The monument was built at a time when Italy sought to assert its place on the world stage, in relation to other European Empires. Looking closer, we might ask, for whom was this statue built? What did it mean to the local population? An art historian might consult archives, newspapers, and other period documents, in order to fully understand the monument's complicated cultural meaning.