Ruins of Paestum 1858

Albert Bierstadt painted "Ruins of Paestum" to capture Italy’s historic landscape. Born in Germany, he spent most of his career in the United States, becoming known for his grand landscapes of the American West. In this painting, the golden light casts an aura of romanticism over the ancient Greek ruins. Yet, Bierstadt’s idealized vision of Italy is also a commentary on the passage of time and the transience of civilizations. We see a land where ancient structures coexist with grazing cattle and horse riders. How does this juxtaposition evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era? Or perhaps it invites reflection on the enduring relationship between humanity and nature? Bierstadt made a career of selling his work to wealthy industrialists, and these images provided a sense of cultural refinement. The painting may remind us to question whose stories are told in these grand narratives and who is left out. Consider how the romantic portrayal of ruins contrasts with the realities of life for many Italians at the time.