Forum Romanum te Rome Possibly 1675 - 1717

This detailed, hand-colored etching, “Forum Romanum te Rome” by Pieter Schenk, is part of a series of prints that depict ancient Roman ruins. The work offers a panoramic view of the Forum Romanum and its surrounding structures, which include the Temple of Saturn and the Basilica Julia. The artist's perspective emphasizes the grandeur of the Roman architectural style, while also highlighting the ruins' impressive size and age. The viewer can easily identify the ruins by their distinct features and their prominent location within the composition. A variety of figures add interest to the scene, including travelers, merchants, and local residents, all of whom are depicted within the expansive space of the ancient forum. The image's perspective from above is a common technique used during the Baroque period to create an illusion of depth.