The image of power. An approach to the methods of display of power in (early) Modern Spain

Abstract

The Hispanic elite´s enjoyment of power during the modern age, led to the assumption of awhole series of cultural practices which seeked imitating the nobility´s habits and behaving patterns. Inthat sense, the utilization of imagery as a demonstration of power had a great capacity of dissuasion onthe rest of the community, turning into a tool for dominance. Works of art (palaces, heraldic shields,paintings, sculptures), uncountable elements of material culture (clothing, crockery, furniture) or thegenealogical treatises get a new meaning on this subject. The study of these practices and skills will allowus to know, not only the habits of diferent groups of hispanic dirigents, but also the social ascensionprocess, headed by an important number of families that adopted this visual strategy.