Circus of Caracalla 1741 - 1748

Giovanni Battista Piranesi etched "Circus of Caracalla," capturing Rome's ancient grandeur. Dominating the scene is the architectural ruin, specifically an arch, a potent symbol of Roman power and triumph. This arch isn't just stone; it's a memory trace. Consider the triumphal arches erected by emperors, gateways through which armies marched, laden with spoils. This motif echoes across time, from ancient Rome to the Renaissance, resurfacing in various forms, each iteration layered with new cultural meanings, yet still resonant with its origin. The arch in Piranesi’s etching is in decay. It evokes a melancholic feeling: the ruin triggers a psychological confrontation with the transience of power and the inevitable decay of civilizations. The power of this image lies in its ability to tap into our collective memory of the past, engaging us on a subconscious level with the cyclical nature of history.