Gezicht op de ruïne van de graftombe van de Horatii en de Curatii te Rome c. 1700 - 1710

This is an anonymous print depicting the ruins of the tomb of the Horatii and Curatii in Rome. It likely dates to the 18th century, a time when the rediscovery of classical antiquity shaped European art and culture. The image presents a romanticized view of the past, featuring crumbling structures and figures posed dramatically amidst the ruins. The Horatii and Curatii were legendary Roman triplets who fought to resolve a dispute between Rome and Alba Longa, a story celebrated for its themes of sacrifice and civic duty. By evoking this narrative, the print engages with ideas about heroism, national identity, and the legacy of Roman civilization. The creation and circulation of such images were closely tied to the Grand Tour, a popular educational journey for wealthy Europeans. Prints like these served as souvenirs and status symbols, demonstrating their owners’ knowledge of classical history and culture. To truly understand this artwork, we might consult guidebooks, travel diaries, and collections catalogues, which offer insight into the cultural values and historical contexts that shaped its meaning.