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The image is a sketch of an architectural ruin viewed from a slightly elevated point. It shows a series of arches extending into space, with a horizon line that is not distinct but suggests depth as the arches recede into the distance. The sketch uses short pencil strokes to depict stone surfaces and foliage, with contrast created through light and shadow. The color palette is primarily shades of gray. Larger arches are closer, with smaller arches and sketched trees in the background. Additional structures can be seen behind the main ruin.
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The image is a sketch of an architectural ruin viewed from a slightly elevated point. It shows a series of arches extending into space, with a horizon line that is not distinct but suggests depth as the arches recede into the distance. The sketch uses short pencil strokes to depict stone surfaces and foliage, with contrast created through light and shadow. The color palette is primarily shades of gray. Larger arches are closer, with smaller arches and sketched trees in the background. Additional structures can be seen behind the main ruin.

National Gallery of Art · Drawing

Arched Passageways of a Ruined Building

Joseph-Marie Vien

Date
1744/1750
Medium
graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 11.7 x 18 cm (4 5/8 x 7 1/16 in.) page size: 42.5 x 27.7 cm (16 3/4 x 10 7/8 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Accession number
1983.49.157
Credit line
Mark J. Millard Architectural Collection
Time span
1726 to 1750
Department
CG-E
Original NGA record Wikidata

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • Italy
  • architecture
  • Cityscape
  • landscape
  • Rome
Provenance

Antonio Cesare Poggi (died c. 1836; Lugt 617); Charles Edouard Mewes; Mark J. Millard, New York; purchased by NGA, 1983.

NGA object ID 62479. 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.