Visions of Antiquity in the 18th Century

Visions of Antiquity in the 18th Century brings together prints, drawings, and objects from the DMA’s collection that reflect the taste for all things Greek and Roman during the 18th century. 

This was a period of great interest in ancient civilizations, as the discovery of archaeological ruins, such as Pompeii in 1748, stimulated enthusiasm for antiquarianism. The constant stream of tourists supported a booming market for printed and drawn images of Roman views, such as the etchings by Giovanni Battista Piranesi on view in this exhibition. The interest in the style à l’antique gave rise to incredible artistic fertility in the 1700s, influencing architecture, decorative arts, painting and sculpture, fashion, festival decorations, and prints. The works displayed at the DMA provide a snapshot of this period of discovery and intense curiosity about classical antiquity.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.