“The Pont du Gard,” created by Hubert Robert in 1787, is a notable artwork from the Rococo movement, measured at 242 x 242 cm. This imaginative rendition, or capriccio, is housed in the eminent Louvre Museum in Paris, France.
The artwork depicts the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, located in the south of France, bathed in the soft, diffused light of either sunrise or sunset. The majestic structure, with its grand arches, dominates the composition, showcasing Robert’s masterful handling of architectural forms. In the foreground, various groups of people engage in leisurely activities by the river, lending a sense of daily life and human interaction to the scene. The sky is adorned with dramatically painted clouds that reflect the warm tones of the setting or rising sun, adding a dynamic and emotive quality to the overall composition. The interplay of light and shadow, coupled with the picturesque landscape, exemplifies the Rococo style’s emphasis on elegance and beauty.
