Architectural capricci, French work from the late 18th century

Majestic stone arcades support the remains of domes opening onto the sky and overgrown with vegetation, creating an atmosphere of abandonment in which nature is reclaiming its rights. A few figures dressed in antique costume stroll among these monumental ruins. Their scale allows the viewer to imagine the grand proportions of this temple.

Through its warm palette of ochres and browns, enlivened with golden highlights, the painting conveys a sense of serenity. The use of chiaroscuro and the contrast between foreground and background enhance the impression of depth.

This composition belongs to the tradition of architectural capricci and antique ruins that were highly prized in the 18th century. It was notably during this period, under the reign of Charles of Bourbon, King of Naples, that Herculaneum was rediscovered, followed about a decade later by Pompeii.

The canvas is presented in an original Régence-period giltwood frame, which enhances the work.

Dimensions without frame: 86 × 63 cm
Dimensions with frame: 94 × 75 cm