Barbault, Jean “Restes des Thermes de Tite”

Jean Barbault (1718-1762).  “Restes des Thermes de Tite.” From Recueil Des Vues, des plus Beaux Monumens Antiques de Rome et De Ses Environs.

Rome: Chez Pierre Piale Marchand, 1763. 6 ½ x 11 1/4 (platemark).  Engraving by Domenico Montagu.   Very good condition. 

Though French by birth, Jean Barbault (1718-1762), who studied under Jean Restout II, is best known for his views of Italy where he moved at age 29. His activity as an artist and etcher was much inspired by the Imperialistic art culture current in Rome at the time, and most notably of Giovanni Battista Piranesi, for whom he engraved some plates for the Vedute di Roma and Le Antichita Romane. Barbault entered the Académie de France in Rome, where he studied until he was thrown out for having married, a situation forbidden for Academicians. He is best known for his publication of his Collection Of Views, Most Beautiful Ancient Monuments Of Rome And Surroundings; Barbault’s views of Rome emphasize the public spaces and buildings, the piazzas and other open spaces, with little notice given to the people of the city. The prints showing ancient temples, ruins and dramatic landscapes are elegantly depicted showcasing the past grandeur of the “Eternal City.”