Capriccio with an Ancient Temple c. 1756

Hubert Robert, who lived from 1733 to 1808, made this washed pen and ink drawing titled ‘Capriccio with an Ancient Temple.’ It presents a familiar yet romanticized vision of antiquity. Robert was a prominent figure in France, deeply influenced by the Enlightenment's fascination with classical antiquity. He was captivated by Rome and the architectural grandeur of its ruins. His personal experiences in Italy shaped his artistic identity, intertwining his work with the history and cultural ideals of the time. In this drawing, Robert imagines a temple overtaken by time, with figures populating its steps and foreground. These people, dwarfed by the architecture, offer a poignant commentary on human temporality against the backdrop of enduring structures. Consider how Robert's focus on ruins reflects a broader societal contemplation of mortality and legacy. The scene, both grand and intimate, invites us to reflect on our place within history. It encourages us to find beauty in decay and continuity, and to see the past not as something lost, but as a foundation upon which we continue to build.