Album met voorstellingen van de ruïnes in Rome, Tivoli, Pozzuolo, en andere plaatsen 1680

This is an album of images of Roman ruins, made anonymously at an unknown date. But what can the very idea of such an album tell us about its social and cultural context? From the 16th century onwards, Rome was the highlight of what was known as 'the Grand Tour', a traditional trip around Europe undertaken by upper-class European young men. It was seen as an educational rite of passage. This album testifies to the popularity of ancient Roman ruins as tourist attractions. The depiction of ruins speaks to a broader cultural interest in the past and its relationship to the present. The album itself is a carefully curated collection, reflecting the owner’s personal taste and interests. By studying similar albums and the travel patterns of the time, we can gain insight into the motivations and experiences of those who sought to connect with history through art. Ultimately, this album is a reminder that art, even in its most personal forms, is shaped by the social and institutional contexts in which it is created and consumed.