Artwork

Septem Urbis Ecclesiae [Seven Churches of Rome]

Septem Urbis Ecclesiae [Seven Churches of Rome], by Giacomo Lauro, ink, 1599
Septem Urbis Ecclesiae [Seven Churches of Rome], by Giacomo Lauro, ink, 1599

Septem Urbis Ecclesiae [Seven Churches of Rome] is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Giacomo Lauro. It dates from 1599 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Septem Urbis Ecclesiae is a 1599 engraving by Giacomo Lauro, depicting a meticulously detailed map of Rome highlighting its seven major churches.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving focuses on Rome’s seven major churches, with the Vatican centrally prominent, conveying the religious and spatial layout of the city.

Technique & Style

Lauro employed hand-drawn lines to create a densely populated yet organized cityscape, incorporating tiny figures, labeled buildings, and intricate architectural details.

History & Provenance

Created in 1599, the engraving’s provenance details are not specified here, though its creation date situates it within the late Renaissance.

Context

Reflecting late Renaissance cartographic and artistic trends, the work blends religious significance with urban geography, catering to both devotional and informational interests.

Legacy

While specific legacy details are not provided, the engraving represents a detailed historical record of Rome’s 16th-century layout and religious architecture.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giacomo Lauro

Giacomo Lauro (1599–1599) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.