Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Turner's Rome Masterpiece Heads to Auction

J.M.W. Turner's "Rome, From Mount Aventine," painted in the late 1820s, is up for auction at Sotheby's with an estimate of $66 million. The artwork is noted for its expressive style and visible artist's marks.

Commissioned to depict Rome authentically, the painting blended modern life with ancient ruins. It remained with its patron for his lifetime before passing through notable owners.

The artwork retains evidence of Turner's technique, including brush hairs and palette knife marks. It will be sold in its original frame and is one of two late Turner works not "lined."

"Lining" is a debated conservation process to strengthen a painting's canvas, which can also cause damage.

Turner, a "painter of light," evolved to an expressive style where mood superseded detail, bordering on abstraction.

His revolutionary approach broke down formal structures, leading to divided critical reception during its 1836 exhibition.

Turner created studies in Rome before finishing the piece in London, depicting the Tiber River and city.

The painting will be displayed in Rome, London, Hong Kong, and New York, with hopes it will find a museum home.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.