View of Saint Peter’s in Rome, 1774

About the Work

Embedded in an ideal classical landscape, the dome of St Peter’s on the distant horizon rises above the Tiber, where it glows like a vision of Rome’s everlasting grandeur. A mild southern light permeates the scene. Similar to many other German artists, for Hackert, his sojourn in Italy meant the realisation of a dream. In addition, a stay in Italy was a rich source of inspiration for his subsequent artistic work. The longing for Italy also attracted many travellers, long before actual tourism developed.