Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae: Column of Antoninus and a Roman Obelisk 1538 - 1575

This engraving, "Speculum Romanae Magnificentiae: Column of Antoninus and a Roman Obelisk," from the Metropolitan Museum of Art depicts the Column of Antoninus Pius and a Roman Obelisk. The unknown artist, working between 1538-1575, expertly captures the grandeur of these ancient Roman structures, conveying their historical significance through intricate detail. The Column of Antoninus Pius, a towering monument with intricate carvings, stands majestically against a backdrop of clouds. The Roman Obelisk, a slender and imposing structure, dominates the left side of the composition, highlighting the enduring legacy of ancient Rome. The engraving evokes the spirit of the Renaissance, a period marked by a renewed interest in classical antiquity.