A Reconstruction of the Thermae of Novitian (above) and a View of the Ruins (below) 1690 - 1704

Jan Goeree created this drawing of the Thermae of Novitian with pen and brown ink, and gray wash, sometime between 1670 and 1731. The composition is divided horizontally, offering contrasting perspectives: an idealized reconstruction above and a ruinous view below. The upper section presents a structured, almost geometric layout of the baths. The lines are clean and precise, emphasizing order and symmetry. The careful arrangement of forms gives a sense of clarity and rational design, typical of classical architectural drawings. Below, the scene shifts dramatically to a romantic depiction of ruins. Soft washes create depth and texture, highlighting the decay and the picturesque quality of the site. The contrast between the idealized plan and the crumbling reality introduces a dialogue about time, memory, and the transience of human achievement. This division reflects a broader cultural interest in both the classical ideal and the romantic appreciation of ruins. The drawing destabilizes a fixed view of history, inviting viewers to consider the layers of time and interpretation.