Capriccio of Antique Ruins with Men Gazing at a Classical Orator

1720s

Marco Ricci

Associated Names
Marco Ricci

Artist, Venetian, 1676 - 1729

The image shows a partially ruined classical structure with large stone arches and columns. Figures are seen among toppled architectural elements like columns. The figures are engaging in various activities such as seated positions and gesturing. In the distance, there is a more complete structure visible through the arch, with additional architectural forms like bridges. The horizon is hidden by ruins and vegetation. The etching style is detailed with intricate line work defining textures of stone, foliage, and fabric, creating a monochromatic palette that evokes a sense of antiquity and an archaeological atmosphere.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper [working proof]

  • Credit Line

    Pepita Milmore Memorial Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 29.8 x 43 cm (11 3/4 x 16 15/16 in.)
    sheet: 31 x 47.2 cm (12 3/16 x 18 9/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2005.28.2

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Bartsch, no. 8, State [working proof'

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Thomas Graf, Berlin (1878 - 1951)(Lugt 1092a). (Stanza del Borgo, Milan); purchased 2005 by NGA.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2008

  • Medieval to Modern: Recent Acquisitions of Drawings, Prints, and Illustrated Books, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2008, no. 62.

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821.

Inscriptions

by later hand, lower left in graphite: B8/230; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: Pilo 230 B. 8 I. Aetzdruck

Wikidata ID

Q76348096

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