Portrait of Marchese Ambrogio Spinola c. 1625

Peter Paul Rubens painted this portrait of Marchese Ambrogio Spinola, capturing him in full armor. The armor is not merely protective gear; it's laden with symbols of power and status, reflecting Spinola's military prowess and noble lineage. Consider the baton he holds, a symbol of authority, echoing the scepters of ancient rulers. Its form can be traced back to the Roman fasces, an emblem of power and justice. This lineage reveals how symbols of authority transcend time, reappearing in different guises to reinforce social hierarchies. Even the red sash, casually draped, speaks of valor and command. Red, the color of blood and passion, has long been associated with martial courage. Think of the red cloaks worn by Roman generals or the crimson banners that led armies into battle. These symbols engage viewers on a subconscious level, evoking deep-seated emotions and memories tied to power and conflict. The baton, the armor, and the sash – they all bear witness to the cyclical progression of symbols, reappearing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.