Colosseum, Rome 1790

Hubert Robert painted this view of the Colosseum in Rome, using oil on canvas. The effect is monumental, but it also shows the building’s ruination, softened by verdant plant life. The Colosseum was originally constructed from travertine limestone, quarried nearby, and assembled by a workforce of skilled artisans. It’s an example of the power of collective labour and the organization of production. Robert wasn't just depicting a historical site; he was reflecting on the social, political, and economic structures that enabled its creation. Look at the way the sunlight catches the stone, imbuing it with a warm glow. Robert was a master of light and atmosphere, but he also understood the significance of materials and making. By emphasizing the Colosseum’s decay, he invited viewers to reflect on the fragility of human achievements. Ultimately, this painting reminds us that art, architecture, and even ruins are products of human labor and creativity.