The Power of Beauty and the Beauty of Power

Power and beauty, two terms that if combined can create very suggestive images. Throughout history, the two concepts that appear to be abstract have demonstrated their concreteness by manifesting themselves as interconnected with each other. Umberto Eco in the book “History of Beauty” tells us how beauty has been an instrument of power over the centuries, often used to strengthen authoritarian regimes through cultural and artistic expressions. These expressions are a powerful tool that has the ability to convey thoughts and philosophies influencing populations.

The power of beauty underlines how it can profoundly influence individuals and societies in their actions and daily lives. Physical beauty in particular can generate a completely positive perception of the person who possesses it, often attributing qualities only on the basis of physical appearance. Social media have also contributed to fueling this conception of the power of beauty, proposing beauty ideals embodied by famous people, to promote advertising and influence society.

The beauty of power, however, more intuitive and dangerous, arises from the admiration and fascination we feel in the desire to command. A leader who brings justice and order inspires and creates consensus. Whoever commands and is master of himself, shows control and wisdom, expresses manifestations of power which, if admired from the outside, reinforce the beauty of power itself. If, as mentioned, the two concepts of power and beauty are closely connected to each other, and this coexistence can be observed visually in the artistic representation of the great protagonists of history, portrayed by cohort painters, certainly hired and therefore interesting to stage, highlights both the characteristics indicated above. Regardless of whether their exercise of power led them to military adventures with negative outcomes.

Art Critic Prof. Vittorio Maria De Bonis will talk about all this by examining and telling the story of great paintings of the past, their characters and authors, such as Goya, Velasquez, Boldini and others.