View of the Arch of Janus, with shepherds and goats in the foreground 1795 - 1800

This print of the Arch of Janus, made by François Morel, captures a picturesque view of ancient Rome. Morel was part of a tradition of artists who depicted Roman monuments, not just as records, but as evocative scenes. In this period, prints played a crucial role in disseminating knowledge about classical architecture. The ruined arch becomes a stage for everyday life. We see shepherds and goats in the foreground, integrating the past with the present. This idyllic portrayal masks the social realities of the time, when rural poverty was widespread. The art market and the Grand Tour played a part in shaping this view of Italy, as wealthy Europeans sought romanticized visions of the ancient world. Art historians use a variety of sources to understand these images. By examining guidebooks, travel accounts, and the biographies of artists, we can understand the complex interplay of commerce, culture, and artistic vision that shaped the creation and reception of works like this.