Joseph Mallord William Turner

As Finberg first correctly identified, the subject of this sketch is the Arch of Constantine seen from the south-east.1 Turner has depicted the eastern façade of the monument but has only faintly indicated the position of the position of the attic bas-relief panel and the roundel and frieze below. More detailed studies of these decorations can be found in the St Peter’s sketchbook (Tate D16190; Turner Bequest CLXXXVIII 18). For further sketches of the Arch see folio 3 verso (D16398; Turner Bequest 4). In the background on the left of the view is the Palatine Hill, whilst on the right is the Temple of Venus and Roma and the bell-tower of the Church of Santa Francesca Romana (see folio 19, D16421).

Like many drawings within this sketchbook, the composition has been executed over a washed grey background and Turner has created areas of pale highlights by lifting or rubbing through to the white paper beneath. Unfortunately, in common with many of the sketches and watercolours chosen for display during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the work has suffered from overexposure to light and the paper has become irreversibly faded and discoloured.

Verso:
Blank except for traces of grey watercolour
Inscribed by ?John Ruskin in red ink ‘793 top right, inverted