Pietro Bartoli, Trajan Leading the Roman Army, from Colonna, Etching, 1672

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Etching on paper realized in 1672. A finely detailed engraving from Pietro Santi Bartoli’s celebrated series documenting the reliefs of … Read more Etching on paper realized in 1672. A finely detailed engraving from Pietro Santi Bartoli’s celebrated series documenting the reliefs of the Column of Trajan, one of the most important monuments of Imperial Rome. The composition depicts Emperor Trajan advancing at the head of his army during the Dacian campaigns, surrounded by mounted cavalry, infantry, and allied Germanic contingents. Scouts return to report on enemy movements, while the emperor, prominently positioned on horseback, embodies the authority and military leadership central to the narrative of the column. Executed with Bartoli’s characteristic precision, the engraving faithfully translates the sculptural relief into a sophisticated graphic composition. The artist’s meticulous line work captures the varied textures of armour, shields, horses, and drapery, while preserving the rhythmic movement and narrative clarity of the ancient monument. The dense arrangement of figures and horses conveys both the discipline of the Roman army and the dynamic energy of an advancing campaign. The explanatory Italian text engraved beneath the image identifies the scene and reflects the scholarly intent of Bartoli’s publications. Produced during the height of seventeenth-century antiquarian interest in classical Rome, the print formed part of an ambitious effort to record and disseminate the artistic and historical achievements of antiquity for collectors, scholars, and Grand Tour travellers. Good impression with crisp engraved lines and strong legibility throughout the composition. Minor age-related toning and light handling wear consistent with the age of the sheet. Margins are preserved. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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