Antieke tempel binnen de vestingmuren van de oude stad Manduria 1778

Louis Ducros made this watercolor of an ancient temple within the walls of Manduria. Ducros was one of many artists who traveled to Italy in the 18th century to document classical ruins. These images played an important role in shaping European perceptions of the ancient world. They helped fuel a growing interest in classical antiquity, influencing art, architecture, and design. But this interest came with its own set of problems. The ruins became symbols of national identity, prompting debates about how to preserve and interpret them. As a historian, I'm interested in understanding how these images were used and the cultural values they promoted. For example, we can investigate guidebooks, travelogues, and archaeological reports to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork’s history. Ultimately, the meaning of art depends on its social and institutional context.