View of the Colosseum from the Basilica of Domitian and the Flavian Palace, Rome 1864

Henri-Joseph Harpignies made this watercolour painting of the Colosseum from the Basilica of Domitian and the Flavian Palace in Rome. Harpignies made this study during a period of renewed artistic interest in the Italian landscape and classical antiquity. As urban centres rapidly industrialized, artists looked to the past for a sense of stability and order. The image of classical ruins served to remind viewers of the transience of modern life. The light and airy washes of colour evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. However, it's important to remember that our understanding of the classical world has been shaped by institutions like museums and academies, which dictate what we value and how we interpret it. To fully appreciate this artwork, we must consider the social and cultural forces that shaped both its creation and its reception. Art historical resources, such as letters, exhibition reviews, and institutional records, can help us to understand the complex interplay between art, society, and history.