The Ruins of the Colosseum
1629
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
About the artist
Artist
Giovanni Battista Mercati
Giovanni Battista Mercati (1600–1680) was an artist.
See the richer artist page1629
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
Dominant colour
The Ruins of the Colosseum is a 1629 ink by Giovanni Battista Mercati, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This black-and-white print shows the ruins of a grand stone building, half-collapsed and overgrown with trees. Two people stand in the foreground—one looks up at the ruins, while the other points or gestures toward them. The scene feels dark and textured, with thick lines creating shadows and depth. The artist used a technique that lets them layer fine details, making the ruins look almost three-dimensional. This print is one of many from the 1600s showing ancient buildings falling apart. Next, check out the technique: etching to see how artists like this made such sharp, detailed prints.
Giovanni Battista Mercati (1600–1680) was an artist.
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