The Baths of Diocletian
1550
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1550
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This etching shows a grand Roman bathhouse with crowds of people bathing and chatting. The lines are sharp and detailed, especially in the clothing and architecture. You can almost hear the water splash. Hieronymus Cock made this in 1550. It’s one of many prints he made of famous ancient ruins. His work helped spread Roman designs across Europe. This piece uses etching. If you like this, try his other prints.