Italy - Rome / Roman Forum; Jan Goeree (1670–1731)// François Halma - Arcus Lucii Septimii Severi Augusti, e Regione Romani Fori. - 1701-1720

Rare and monumental seventeenth-century engraving depicting an ideal and triumphal architectural reconstruction of the Arch of Septimius Severus in Rome, viewed from the perspective of the Forum Romanum.
The work stands out for its exceptional richness of details and for the refined decorative apparatus that frames the architectural structure:
• In the center: The elevation of the triumphal arch with three doorways, with the original Latin dedicatory inscription perfectly legible on the attic.
• At the top: A majestic central imperial chariot drawn by ramping horses, flanked by allegorical figures and monumental military trophies on the sides.
• At the upper and lower margins: Splendid numismatic inserts reproducing ancient Roman coins and medallions in obverse and reverse (with the inscription S.C. - Senatus Consulto), as well as classic imperial portrait busts in profile finely worked.
This plate belongs to the famous illustrated historical and archaeological publications of the early eighteenth century overseen by the publisher François Halma in Amsterdam, which merged the rigor of antiquarian documentation with the scenographic taste of Dutch Baroque.

• Inking: Sharp, vigorous, and well contrasted, with excellent rendering of chiaroscuro and the finest architectural details.
• Support: Original heavy laid paper sheet of the period. Displays the typical central editorial fold."