Tivoli

1854

David Roberts

Associated Names
David Roberts

Artist, Scottish, 1796 - 1864

The image shows an ancient architectural site from a slightly elevated perspective. The horizon is behind the ruins, suggesting a vast landscape that extends beyond. A circular building with classical columns stands on the upper right. Other less distinct structures appear on the left, including one with an arched opening closer to us. Delicate pencil strokes and light watercolor washes create a subdued quality. The color palette consists of earthy tones and shades of sepia, blending with the paper’s natural color to give a timeless ambiance to the scene.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    graphite and watercolor on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of William B. O'Neal

  • Dimensions

    overall: 20.4 x 26.5 cm (8 1/16 x 10 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1995.52.148


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Thos. Agnew & Sons Ltd., London); purchased by William B. O'Neal, Charlottesville, VA, 1979-1994; gift to NGA, 1995.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1989

  • The Spell of Italy, McGregor Room, University of Virginia Library, Charlottesville, 5 March - 31 July, 1989.

Inscriptions

lower left in brush and wash: Tivoli Jan 29th 1854.

Wikidata ID

Q64540886

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