View of the Flooded Piazza Navona by Antonio Joli, Rome, Reproduction Print

Description

This painting was executed sometime between 1700 and 1777, during the lifetime of Antonio Joli. It show the Piazza Navona … more This painting was executed sometime between 1700 and 1777, during the lifetime of Antonio Joli. It show the Piazza Navona which occupies the ancient stadium of Domitian, then known as the Circus Agonalis. This square has been known throughout its history as a location for festivals, jousts and open air sports. From the 17th century to the 19th century the piazzo was purposely flooded in August, on certain Sundays and feast days, for the entertainment of the Romans. During the hot month of August, the singular custom prevailed of stopping the flow of water from the fountains. This action would turn the square into a lake, through which the rich splashed about in carriages, ate ices and drank coffee in the water, while the poor looked on from raised galleries.

What fun! Although I'm sure the poor did not appreciate the flooding of their homes.

This is a happy painting and the colors are lovely. I especially enjoy the blues of the sky and water. The depth of the painting draws your eye along the ancient buildings and arches to the end of the piazza.

This print is offered on Hahnemuhle Fine Art Paper printed in the Giclee method. less