Thermen van Caracalla 1680

Hier. Ferri's rendition of the Thermen van Caracalla, an engraving, invites us to contemplate the cyclical nature of power and decay. The dominant motif is the arch, a symbol of Roman engineering and imperial ambition. Here, the arches, once emblems of Roman dominance, stand in ruin. This isn't just an image of architectural decay; it's a potent symbol of the transience of power. The arch as a motif carries echoes of triumph, like those seen in triumphal arches erected for emperors. Yet, here, it speaks of loss. Consider how this contrasts with the arch in Christian iconography, where it signifies divine promise and eternal salvation. The ruin has a psychological dimension, tapping into our collective anxiety about time and oblivion. This image has evolved, resurfaced, and taken on new meanings across different times and places in history.