The Cloaca Maxima, plate three from Ruins of Rome c. 1796

"The Cloaca Maxima" is a hand-colored aquatint print from the "Ruins of Rome" series created by the artist M. Dubourg around 1796. The aquatint print depicts a landscape featuring the Cloaca Maxima, an ancient Roman sewer system, flowing under a small stone bridge. The depiction features lush trees and a small stream cascading from the bridge, adding a romantic feel to the otherwise utilitarian structure. This series of prints, which showcase iconic ruins of the Roman Empire, was popular among wealthy collectors who were fascinated with the grandeur of ancient civilizations.