Landscape with Ruins c. 18th century

Editor: We are looking at Fabio Berardi's "Landscape with Ruins," made sometime in the 18th century. It's a detailed scene, but there's a feeling of melancholy, almost a beautiful decay. What can you tell me about the historical context that might have influenced it? Curator: The 18th century saw a rise in the Grand Tour, where wealthy Europeans traveled to Italy to experience classical culture. These ruins became symbols of a glorious past, ripe for romanticizing. Berardi is participating in, and also shaping, that narrative. Editor: So the ruins are less about actual decay and more about constructing an image? Curator: Precisely. It is an image of the past serving the present. Consider how the figures are placed in relation to the ruins - what stories are being told through their interactions? Editor: That's fascinating! It changes how I see the whole scene. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Considering art in its social environment really opens up new avenues for interpretation.