La Veuë de lâArc de Constantin et du Colisee
late 17th century
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-533-239
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This engraving by French artist Gabriel Perelle captures a sweeping view of two iconic Roman landmarks: the Arch of Constantine and the Colosseum. Created in the late seventeenth century, the print reflects the period’s fascination with classical antiquity, as European artists and collectors looked to ancient Rome for inspiration in art and architecture. Perelle, known for his detailed landscape prints, translated these monumental structures into an accessible image that brought the Eternal City to viewers far beyond Italy. As a print, the work exemplifies an important medium of its time. Eng...