While the concept of authenticity is commonly linked to the market exchange process, it also assists in the pursuit of political, social and economic objectives. Authenticity provides a legitimating function that serves the needs of specific groups and individuals. Establishing authenticity remains culturally and contextually dependent and requires an understanding of prevailing power relationships and historical events. This is demonstrated by reference to a series of sixteenth and seventeenth century images of retailing and the marketplace. Using iconological interpretive techniques, the paper identifies how works of art served a propagandist role designed to influence and modify public opinion. Developments in both production and consumption led to a commodification of artistic works and afforded a means of communication that both challenged and empowered established institutions. The paper highlights the contemporary significance of these findings and suggests that modern marketing imagery may seek to authenticate socio-political as well as economic meaning.

During the Renaissance, visual images were legitimate and authoritative sources of information that influenced behavior and directed public opinion. Against a background of political and religious unrest and growing pressure for economic reform, it is maintained that Annibale Carracci’s painting of The Butchers Shop (ca. 1580–1583) sought to legitimize the professionalism of Bologna’s butchery trades, reinforce the reputation of the guild system, and remind audiences of the dangers of papal interference in commercial endeavor. By implicitly advocating the value of institutional hegemony and trade protectionism, The Butchers Shop represents a form of late sixteenth-century visual propaganda and image management.

Purpose During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic sought to project a positive global image centred around the principles of economic endeavour, moral stewardship and military resilience. By illustrating one way in which the country sought to communicate its international position, the paper aims to provide an early example of political diplomacy and reputation management. Design/methodology/approach Pictorial narratives provide an important but often underutilised insight into our cultural, social and economic history. As works of art were considered legitimate and authoritative forms of communication, their importance can lie beyond any aesthetic accomplishment. Using established iconographic techniques, this paper deconstructs and interprets the meaning contained within a specific genre painting, The Young Mother (1658) by Gerrit Dou. Findings Rather than being devoid of meaning, The Young Mother represents a narrative purposely constructed to symbolise the cultural, religious and economic character of the United Provinces. It celebrates success through global trade, innovation and enterprise while simultaneously reminding audiences of the country’s moral and spiritual foundations. Like the patriotic allegory of De Hollandse Maag protecting the sacred space of the hortus conclusus, the painting is a secular representation of the new Loca Sancta. Originality/value While acknowledging that The Young Mother has been praised for its visual qualities, this paper maintains that any broader political significance has been largely overlooked. The analysis and findings therefore offer original interpretations from which new conclusions are drawn.