The Obelisk 1787

Hubert Robert’s “The Obelisk” was rendered with oil on canvas, a popular medium during the 18th century. Robert’s painting is not just an artistic rendering but also a reflection of the labor and social context of its time. The architecture is monumental in scale, likely stone, requiring immense labor to quarry, carve, transport, and erect. The obelisk stands as a symbol of ancient power, shaped by the hands of countless artisans and laborers. Robert’s interest in ruins reminds us of the materials' endurance over time, and the hands that shaped them. His rendering of the figures hints at social stratification, with some appearing idle while others engage in work. By focusing on the materials, craftsmanship, and social context within “The Obelisk”, Robert blurs the lines between fine art and craft.