Art, Patronage, and Nepotism in Early Modern Rome

In seventeenth-century Rome, cardinal nephews used the arts to cultivate their social status and defend their nepotism as good Catholic rule. They commissioned frescos, paintings, sculptures, and curiosities to embed their defense of their role into the physical fabric of authority, creating a dialogue on the nature of power that fueled the development of innovative visual forms.

Format: Hardback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 19 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

In the vibrant tapestry of seventeenth-century Rome, cardinal nephews, those esteemed princes of the Church who ascended to the cardinalate, embraced the arts as a powerful tool to forge their social ascent. Through a meticulous exploration of rich archival sources and a close examination of the works of renowned artists such as Guido Reni and Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Karen J. Lloyd unveils a captivating narrative that reveals the profound impact of these nephews on the art world.

These cardinal nephews, raised in the opulence of the Vatican Palace, sought to redefine nepotism as a virtuous expression of Catholic rule. They commissioned awe-inspiring frescos, captivating paintings, sculptures, and curiosities that not only showcased their immense wealth and power but also imbued them with a sense of religious significance. Their artistic endeavors took advantage of their privileged proximity to the pope, seamlessly integrating the defense of their role into the very fabric of authority. From the majestic vaults of the Vatican Palace to the sensual garden villas that blurred the lines between business and pleasure in the Eternal City, these nephews created a visual language that resonated with both the religious elite and the common people.

In their artistic creations, cardinal nephews crafted a seductively potent dialogue on the nature of power. They portrayed themselves as the indispensable heart of papal politics, using innovative visual forms to assert their authority and influence. Their works resonated with audiences far and wide, sparking debates and inspiring new artistic movements that sought to redefine the boundaries of power and authority.

This book, a testament to the power of art and politics, offers a profound insight into the lives and legacies of these cardinal nephews. It will captivate scholars working in art history, early modern studies, religious history, and political history, shedding light on the intricate interplay between art, power, and religion in the seventeenth century. Through its meticulous research and engaging narrative, Lloyd provides a fresh perspective on the role of the arts in shaping the political landscape of an era that continues to fascinate and inspire us today.

Weight: 662g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032117072