Modern Rome 1757

Giovanni Paolo Panini's *Modern Rome* (1757) is a captivating capriccio, a genre of art depicting imaginary architectural settings, that showcases the artist's fascination with the city of Rome. The painting features a grand, idealized hall filled with numerous paintings depicting famous Roman landmarks, creating a visually engaging interplay between reality and imagination. The viewer is drawn into the scene through the use of perspective and the inclusion of figures, subtly suggesting the act of viewing and appreciating these iconic sites. Panini's masterful use of light and shadow brings depth and dimension to the composition, immersing the observer in the grandeur of Rome's architectural heritage.