S. Rocco c. 1754 - 1765

Hubert Robert sketched ‘S. Rocco’ using graphite, capturing a scene dominated by architectural forms. The church with its dome rises in the background, framed by the stark verticals of surrounding structures, which creates a sense of depth. Robert uses line to define the edges of buildings and the steps in the foreground, employing a rapid, sketching technique. There's a contrast between the solid geometry of the buildings and the more freely rendered sky, which introduces an element of dynamism. The composition is structured around a series of horizontal planes suggested by the steps, which lead the eye towards the architectural elements. This drawing reflects a fascination with architectural space, seen through the lens of the picturesque. Robert challenges our perception of fixed spaces by presenting us with an unfolding series of lines and forms. The sketch invites viewers to engage with the scene not as a static image, but as an experience of moving through space.