Gezicht op het Forum van Nerva Possibly 1566

Cornelis Cort created this drawing of the Gezicht op het Forum van Nerva with pen and brush in the 16th century. Cort, who was a Dutch printmaker and draughtsman, was deeply influenced by the artistic and intellectual environment of his time. During the 16th century, Rome was a nexus of humanist scholarship and artistic innovation, with classical antiquity acting as a major source of inspiration. By examining the ruins of the Forum of Nerva, we gain insight into the Renaissance fascination with ancient Rome and how ruins became symbols of both past glory and the transience of human achievement. Cort's drawing is an exploration of the dialogue between the ruins and the city's contemporary life, highlighting the relationship between past and present. The sketch-like quality of the drawing captures the state of the ruins as objects of study and contemplation. It invites us to reflect on the passage of time and the cyclical nature of civilization. It's a physical manifestation of memory and history, evoking a sense of melancholy.