Roman Ruin

This painting is a graceful variation on the theme of an architectural capriccio, a piece of architecture freely combining real and fantastic components. The space is enclosed by the wall of a rounded ancient temple, which features only a small aperture, thereby revealing a view of the open countryside. The ruin, which symbolizes the bygone glory and the relentless flight of time, is concealed in a haze, which even enhances the nostalgic and sad mood. This almost monochrome scene is enlivened by colourful staffage, featuring rustics and an aristocratic traveller, who is listening to the peasant’s comment on the bust representing a philosopher.