Artwork

Rome

Rome, by François Le Febvre, ink, 1665
Rome, by François Le Febvre, ink, 1665

Rome is an ink print by the Baroque artist François Le Febvre. It dates from 1665 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Rome is an engraving by François Le Febvre, dated to circa 1665. It depicts a floral motif with three prominent, ribbon-suspended ornaments, surrounded by additional floral and foliate elements.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of 'Rome' is a decorative, Baroque-inspired floral arrangement. The emphasis on lush, suspended ornaments suggests a celebration of natural abundance and possibly alludes to the ornateness of Baroque aesthetics.

Technique & Style

Executed in a detailed engraving style, 'Rome' features intricate linework that achieves a high degree of realism in rendering flowers and leaves, characteristic of the meticulous craftsmanship of 17th-century engraving.

History & Provenance

Created around 1665 by François Le Febvre, the engraving's provenance and exhibition history are not specified in available information.

Context

'Rome' can be contextualized within the broader Baroque movement, reflecting its penchant for elaborate ornamentation and naturalistic detail, though the engraving's specific thematic connections to Rome are not immediately apparent from the image alone.

Legacy

While 'Rome' itself is not noted for groundbreaking influence, it represents a typical example of 17th-century Baroque engraving, potentially informing later decorative arts and printmaking practices through its detailed, realistic style.

Artist & collection

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