Portraits and Statues: How Images Build Royal Identity

Images perform identity. Indoors, portraits anchor lineage; outdoors, statues broadcast power to the city and shape civic memory.

Contents

• Portraits Inside
• Statues Outside
• Reading an Image

Portraits Inside

• Pose and costume sketch roles and reforms.
• Background objects act as mini manifestos.

Statues Outside

• Placement and height calibrate authority.
• Weathering adds unintended patina and meaning over time.

Reading an Image

• Pose and attributes: scepter, sword, book, laurel.
• Setting: interior ceremony vs open plaza.
• Material: oil, stone, or bronze — each speaks differently.