Artwork
Fire of Rome
Fire of Rome is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Hubert Robert. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Fire of Rome is an oil painting created by French artist Hubert Robert in 1794. Although commonly associated with the Romantic movement, this work also reflects elements of the preceding Rococo style.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a semi-fictitious scene of Rome in flames, characteristic of Robert's capricci style, which blended realistic and imaginary elements, often focusing on dramatic or picturesque views of European landscapes and architectural ruins.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, Fire of Rome showcases Robert's mastery of capturing light and atmosphere, blending the delicacy of Rococo with the emerging emotional depth of Romanticism.
History & Provenance
Completed in 1794, the painting is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection, though its provenance prior to acquisition is not detailed here.
Context
Created during the transition from Rococo to Romanticism, Fire of Rome reflects Robert's contribution to this artistic shift, while its subject matter taps into late 18th-century European fascination with classical antiquity and dramatic landscapes.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Hubert Robert (French pronunciation: ; 22 May 1733 – 15 April 1808) was a French painter in the school of Romanticism, noted especially for his landscape paintings and capricci, or semi-fictitious picturesque depictions of ruins in Italy…
