Romeinse muur met boog 1782 - 1837

This Roman wall with an arch was rendered in ink and watercolor, by Pieter Bartholomeusz Barbiers. The artist's hand is evident in the fluidity of the wash, which captures the rough texture of the ancient stones. The way the washes are applied, with varying densities, conveys both the play of light on the surface and the depth of the arched tunnel receding into the distance. While the subject matter reflects a classical interest characteristic of the period, the medium itself – watercolor – was becoming increasingly popular, accessible to a broader range of artists beyond traditional academic painting. This shift towards more democratic materials reflects wider social changes, as art moved away from exclusive patronage towards a more open market. By emphasizing the materiality and process, we recognize how "fine art" is intertwined with broader cultural and economic shifts.