Piazza del Popolo, Rome (Primary Title)
Piazza del Popolo (Former Title)
Caspar van Wittel, Flemish, 1652/1653 - 1736 (Artist)
Situated close to an important landing on the River
Tiber, the Piazza del Popolo has served as the principal
entrance to Rome since ancient times. This immersive
topographical view commemorates the transformation
of the public square as part of the general plans for
urban development ordained by Pope Alexander VII
between 1655 and 1667. Significant modifications
included the realignment of the three main streets—
known as the Trident—that converge upon the
square from the south and the construction of the
twin churches that mark their meeting point, Santa
Maria di Montesanto and Santa Maria di Miracoli.
Around the ancient Egyptian obelisk that towers over
the piazza’s center, clergy and beggars, carriage-riding
nobles and laborers, travelers and children at play
intermingle or go about their business. This broad
array of human activity and the deeply receding,
atmospheric blue sky reveal Van Wittel’s indebtedness
to Dutch panoramic traditions.
The Jordan and Thomas A. Saunders III Collection
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
