View of the Colosseum with the Palatine in the Background

probably 1550

Hieronymus Cock

Associated Names
Hieronymus Cock

Artist, Netherlandish, 1518 - 1570

The image shows ruins from a slightly elevated angle, providing a view of the layers and depth of the structures. The horizon is low in the composition, with hills or mountainous ruins in the distance. The horizon line is unclear, blending with the rugged terrain and remnants of ancient buildings. The etching style includes detailed line work with hatching and cross-hatching to depict textures. The color scheme is monochromatic, with sepia tones in the black and white etching. The foreground features detailed ruins with arches and vegetation. Additional structures are visible in the distance, creating a sense of continuity. The background shows a barren, rugged landscape ascending to more ruins.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    sheet (trimmed to plate mark): 20.9 x 27.9 cm (8 1/4 x 11 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1994.80.12

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 32

  • Series Title

    Views of Roman Ruins: pl. I [Hollstein 22-46]

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(sale, Christie's, London, 29 November 1994, no. 53); (Christopher Mendez, London via David Tunick, New York); purchased 1994 by NGA.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. 72 Vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1951: vol. IV (Cock), no. 32.

1971

  • Riggs, Timothy A. "Hieronymus Cock: Printmaker and Publisher." Ph.D. diss., Yale University (1971): no. 11.

Inscriptions

upper left in plate: RVINARVM PALATII MAIORIS, PROSPECTVS .1.; upper right in plate: .I.; lower center in plate: H.COK.F.

Wikidata ID

Q75125908

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