Portret van Alessandro Farnese, hertog van Parma 1585 - 1612

This is Gijsbert Van Veen’s engraving of Alessandro Farnese, Duke of Parma, made around the turn of the 17th century. It presents us with a visual language of power and authority, deeply embedded in the cultural and political context of the time. The image is rich with visual codes. Farnese is framed within an oval of stars, holding both a shield and a thunderbolt, symbols of military might and divine favor. Note the scenes of battle above, referencing his military achievements in the service of the Spanish crown. Born into an Italian noble family, Farnese served as a governor of the Netherlands for the Spanish. To understand this image, we need to delve into the history of the Spanish empire, the role of the Catholic Church, and the political struggles of the Dutch Republic. It’s an exercise in understanding not just the artistry, but the social and institutional forces that shaped its creation and meaning. This is where the art historian's work begins, researching archives and libraries to understand that contingent context.