Landscape with an imaginary view of Tivoli

Born in the Duchy of Lorraine (now in north-eastern France), Claude Gellée earned the nickname ‘Lorrain’ when he arrived in Italy. He spent his entire career in Rome, specialising in idyllic landscapes. He favoured the setting provided by the town of Tivoli, outside of Rome, which combined ancient Roman ruins with expansive views of the countryside. More than an accurate depiction, however, Claude sought here to render a general atmosphere.