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Antiquity & ruins
Column of Trajan, Rome, Original Hand-Colored Engraving, 1798
£410
$545 · €485
Original print, not a reproduction
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- Date
- 1798
- Sheet size
- 16.7 × 11.9 in (42.4 × 30.3 cm)
- Condition
- Excellent. Impression with fresh coloring. Light toning and minor spotting in margins consistent with age. Visible plate mark around the image, as issued.
- Collection
- Antiquity & ruins
- Era
- 1790 to 1849, Neoclassical and Romantic
- Stock no.
- f_46955752
Title: Column of Trajan, Rome, Original Hand-Colored Engraving, 1798
This original hand-colored engraving titled "Column of Trajan" was published in London on May 14th, 1798 by L. Merigot, No. 28 Haymarket, and R. Edwards, No. 142 New Bond Street. The print beautifully depicts the ancient Column of Trajan in Rome, one of the most iconic monuments of Imperial architecture. The column, erected in 113 AD to commemorate Emperor Trajan’s victory in the Dacian Wars, is renowned for its intricate spiral reliefs narrating the story of the campaign.
The engraving captures the monument in remarkable detail, from the sculpted frieze winding up the column to the statue crowning it, here shown as St. Peter, which replaced the original bronze statue of Trajan in the 16th century. In the background stands the Church of the Most Holy Name of Mary (Chiesa del Santissimo Nome di Maria al Foro Traiano), with its elegant Baroque dome providing a striking architectural contrast to the ancient column.
At the foot of the monument, small human figures dressed in late 18th-century attire add scale and context, reflecting the neoclassical fascination with Rome’s ancient ruins that was widespread among travelers of the Grand Tour.
Condition: Excellent impression with fresh coloring. Light toning and minor spotting in margins consistent with age. Visible plate mark around the image, as issued.
Framing tips: This engraving would look striking in a dark gilt or walnut neoclassical frame with a warm ivory or antique white mat to enhance the contrast and emphasize the architectural tones.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving on paper
Maker: L. Merigot & R. Edwards, London, 1798
