Artwork
Capriccio of Classical Ruins with a Fortress
Capriccio of Classical Ruins with a Fortress is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Giacomo Guardi. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Capriccio of Classical Ruins with a Fortress is a drawing created by Giacomo Guardi in 1800. It is executed in pen and brown ink with gray wash on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a fantastical landscape featuring classical ruins, a fortress, and everyday activities. The scene is not based on a real location, but rather is an imaginative composition of ancient structures, including a tower with a flag and a large stone building with arches.
Technique & Style
Guardi employed loose lines and shading to convey a sense of light and shadow, eschewing heavy detail. The use of pen and brown ink with gray wash allowed for a range of tonal values, creating a faded, atmospheric effect.
History & Provenance
Giacomo Guardi, born in Venice in 1764, was the son of Francesco Guardi, a renowned Veduta painter. Giacomo followed in his father's tradition, producing small-scale views that showcased his technical skill.
Artist & collection
Artist
Giacomo Guardi (13 April 1764 – 3 November 1835) was an Italian painter from Venice.
