The image shows a frontal view of the ancient Arco di Druso, an architectural ruin. The arch stands prominently in the middle of the composition. The horizon line is not visible, obscured by the arch and landscape elements. Foliage covers the top of the arch, creating depth. Trees and partially crumbled walls frame the scene. The intricate etching technique showcases fine lines and detailed shading, capturing textures of stone and vegetation. The color palette is monochromatic with varying shades of grey and black. A path leads under the archway, with animals (possibly donkeys or goats) walking through. The sky has softly etched clouds.
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The image shows a frontal view of the ancient Arco di Druso, an architectural ruin. The arch stands prominently in the middle of the composition. The horizon line is not visible, obscured by the arch and landscape elements. Foliage covers the top of the arch, creating depth. Trees and partially crumbled walls frame the scene. The intricate etching technique showcases fine lines and detailed shading, capturing textures of stone and vegetation. The color palette is monochromatic with varying shades of grey and black. A path leads under the archway, with animals (possibly donkeys or goats) walking through. The sky has softly etched clouds.

National Gallery of Art · Portfolio

Arco di Druso

Jacob Wilhelm Mechau

Date
1794
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 37.6 x 28.2 cm (14 13/16 x 11 1/8 in.) sheet: 49 x 39.2 cm (19 5/16 x 15 7/16 in.)
Classification
Portfolio · Print
Accession number
2003.86.10
Credit line
New Century Fund
Time span
1726 to 1750
Department
CG-E

Portfolio and series

Series
Collection ou Suite de Vues Pittoresques de l'Italie (plate 10)

Subjects and terms

  • architecture
  • German
  • Cow
  • Nature
  • animal
  • Wall
Provenance

(Thomas Le Claire Kunsthandel, Hamburg); purchased 2003 by NGA.

NGA object ID 127983. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.