In studying Donato Bramante's Ruined Temple (1481), this
essay looks beyond the traditional question of its subject matter,
considering this engraving as an image about images of all kinds. Taking the
inconspicuous cross on the column as its focal point, it shows how the print
offers a dialectical disquisition on the value of the Christian sign as
measured against the alluring remains of pagan civilization. The vexed
nature of this choice registers a profound artistic problem. Caught between
the ideals of classical antiquarianism and contemporary devotion, Bramante
here claims the ground between artistic fame and obscurity, righteousness
and idolatrous ruin.
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