Ruïnes aan voet van berg tussen Itri en Gaeta 1778

Editor: This is "Ruïnes aan voet van berg tussen Itri en Gaeta," created in 1778 by Louis Ducros, using watercolor. It's held at the Rijksmuseum. I'm immediately struck by its wistful and ethereal mood. It almost feels like a dream. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This watercolour offers a romanticized view of ruins, which was a popular theme in the late 18th century. These images reflected an emerging interest in classical antiquity, as well as, perhaps, a way of reflecting on the fleeting nature of empires. Where would you situate a piece like this in terms of public perception and the marketplace? Editor: Well, given it was created in 1778, and that this piece now resides in the Rijksmuseum, the piece would reflect Dutch aspirations of Empire but through Italian conquest. Are we sure this wasn't created to celebrate those achievements in conquest? Curator: The subject matter—Italian ruins drawn by a Swiss artist— comports with what became the tourist industry. Consider, however, the use of watercolor here; how might this suggest the painting was meant as more of an inexpensive art good rather than some sort of national or cultural symbolism? Editor: I see what you mean. The watercolour medium could certainly indicate its use for mass market as well as to promote some of those grand European tours. This must have been a tourist snapshot of its time to capture something. Curator: Exactly. It's interesting how artists like Ducros contributed to the romantic vision of Italy as a place filled with remnants of the past, shaping the perception of this nation, wouldn't you say? It goes hand in hand with promoting a form of tourism that helps disseminate these romantic, idealized images. Editor: That makes sense. I hadn’t really considered that the imagery would shape tourist practices at the time. It provides so much richer context now. Curator: Yes, art often plays a pivotal role in constructing those collective memories, influencing what we value and remember.