[Arch of Septimus Severus, Rome]

Renaissance representation of classical ruins was a symbol of antiquity, enlightenment, and lost knowledge. Ruins spoke to the passage of time. The greatest subject for ruin artists was the overgrown and crumbling Classical Rome remains. Forum and the Colosseum, Pantheon, and the Appian Way. Initially, art representations of Rome were realistic, but soon the imagination of artists took flight. Roman ruins were scattered around the city, but frustrated artists began placing them in more pleasing arrangements. Capriccio was a style of imaginary scenes of buildings and ruins.

The arch was commissioned by the Roman Senate to commemorate Constantine's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge in AD 312. Arch of Constantine is an important monument that reflects the political and military achievements of Constantine the Great, who played a significant role in the Roman Empire's transition to Christianity. Constantine's victory at the Battle of Milvian Bridge is said to have been a turning point that influenced his support for Christianity and eventually led to the Edict of Milan in 313 CE, which granted religious tolerance to Christians. The arch stands near the Colosseum and was dedicated in 315 CE. It is the largest surviving triumphal arch in Rome. The structure consists of three archways and is adorned with reliefs and sculptures, some of which were repurposed from earlier monuments and buildings. The reliefs on the Arch of Constantine depict scenes from various imperial campaigns and events, including battles, hunting scenes, and religious ceremonies. Some of the reliefs were taken from earlier monuments, such as the Arch of Marcus Aurelius and the Arch of Trajan, and were incorporated into the design of the Arch of Constantine. The Arch of Constantine itself has undergone some restoration and conservation work over the years to ensure its preservation. These efforts have focused on stabilizing the structure, cleaning the stonework, and addressing any deterioration or damage caused by weathering and pollution.