- Architectural capriccio with obelisk
- B.M.273
- 18th century
- French
Length: 106 cm
Width: 139.1 cm
Width: Frame 123 cm
Length: Frame 155 cm
Depth: Frame 6 cm
Hubert Robert often depicted recognisable structures, transforming them into ancient ruins for his fantastical compositions. He was affectionately known as Robert des Ruines.
The pillar of Trajan is seen in the centre of a semi circle raised on steps, surrounded by a Corinthian portico with six rows of columns, similar to those found at St Peter’s Basilica, Rome. The foreground is scattered with fragments of a broken obelisk and a frieze decorated with ornaments of Nero.
Robert populated these decaying monuments with contemporary 18th century figures going about their daily lives. In the foreground a woman carries a basket filled with sheets on her head, perhaps having just washed them in the fountain.