Portret van keizer Caligula 1643 - 1680

This is Johann Friedrich Leonard’s etching of Emperor Caligula. Note the laurel wreath, a prominent symbol of victory and imperial power since the Greco-Roman era. The wreath, bestowed upon triumphant generals and emperors, signifies not just military success but also divine favor and eternal glory. Yet, consider the psychological weight of such symbols. In Caligula’s case, the wreath is a stark reminder of the burden of leadership and the potential for tyranny. The wreath appears throughout history, from ancient sculptures to Renaissance paintings, each time imbued with evolving meanings. Even today, we see echoes of the laurel in ceremonial awards, its presence a testament to our collective memory of power and prestige. This image is a potent reminder of how symbols persist, carrying layers of historical and emotional significance across time.