Villa Medici c. 1754 - 1765

Hubert Robert sketched Villa Medici using graphite, offering us a glimpse into the architectural and cultural landscapes that shaped 18th-century Europe. Robert’s experience as a pensionnaire at the French Academy in Rome deeply influenced his artistic perspective. During this time, the Academy served as a hub for artistic exchange. It was also, of course, an emblem of aristocratic privilege. Robert’s depictions of Italian architecture and landscapes reflect the period's fascination with classical antiquity. However, his focus extends beyond mere documentation; he infuses the scenes with a sense of romanticism and nostalgia. Consider the power dynamics inherent in the depiction of such spaces. Who had access? Whose stories were told, and whose were silenced? This sketch serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between artistic vision and the socio-political contexts of the time. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which architecture can embody power, privilege, and cultural identity.