Caesonia, Wife of Caligula 16th-17th century

Curator: Aegidius Sadeler II created this engraving, "Caesonia, Wife of Caligula." The work is currently held in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The monochrome palette focuses my attention on the contrasts. Light and shadow sculpt Caesonia's form against the ruined architecture behind her. Curator: Indeed. The crumbling background suggests a fall from glory, a visual foreshadowing of the fate of Caligula’s reign. Caesonia became known for her unique approach to motherhood and her unwavering loyalty to Caligula. Editor: The diagonal lines of her drapery create a dynamic tension, drawing the eye across the picture plane. It is quite effective at directing attention. Curator: She was a figure of immense power, and Sadeler subtly captures the ambivalence history holds for her. Her strength and her association with the infamous Caligula forever intertwine. Editor: Through carefully calibrated tones and textures, Sadeler presents a compelling study in power, ruin, and visual storytelling. Curator: Sadeler provides a glimpse into the past, reminding us of the stories embedded within art.