View of Via Balbi in Genoa 1645 - 1655

This drawing of the Via Balbi in Genoa was made with pen and ink on paper, by an anonymous artist. It presents a linear view of the street’s architecture. The choice of humble materials and methods speaks volumes. Unlike the grand structures depicted, the drawing is rendered with simple tools, available to many. Notice the stark contrast: the buildings signify wealth, power, and permanence, achieved through vast resources and labor. But here, we see only the trace of the artist's hand, carefully mapping the facades with ink. It’s interesting to consider the social context of this work. Was it a record, a proposal, or a personal study? The drawing's level of detail suggests a careful engagement with the built environment, but its purpose remains enigmatic. Ultimately, this drawing invites us to reflect on the relationship between representation and reality, between the labor of making and the social structures it reflects. It blurs the boundaries between art, craft, and documentation, and forces us to consider the value we place on each.