Temple of Mars Ultor, Rome 1840 - 1845

James Holland's watercolor of the Temple of Mars Ultor in Rome offers us a glimpse into the enduring fascination with classical antiquity during the 19th century. Holland, working in a period defined by British Imperial expansion, depicts the Temple, built in 42 BC by Augustus Caesar, with a romantic sensibility. The architectural relic stands as a powerful symbol of Roman imperial power and justice. It is a visual reminder of the rise and fall of empires. The Temple also suggests a continuity between ancient Rome and the contemporary political ambitions of Holland's Britain. The delicate watercolor technique softens the edges of the Temple. The addition of an ordinary working scene on the right subtly contrasts past grandeur with the present. This invites the viewer to consider the layers of history and their relation to the present day. By situating artworks like Holland’s within their historical context, using sources such as travel accounts, architectural histories, and political writings, we can gain insight into the complex cultural dialogues that these images participate in.