Roman View 1610 - 1657

Bartholomeus Breenbergh's "Roman View" from 1610-1657, currently at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the artist's fascination with the architecture of ancient Rome. This small-scale drawing, rendered in pen and wash, depicts a narrow pathway leading into a crumbling Roman ruin, a detail that highlights the city's past glory and its slow decay. The artist's subtle use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and mystery, transporting viewers to the heart of ancient Italy.