'The Roman Bath', School of Rome (circa 1960s)

'The Roman Bath', pencil on art paper (circa 1960s), School of Rome. Three broad-shouldered men make their way through the sultry corridors of the Hammam in 1960s Rome. One wears his bath towel like a superhero's cape, the others, more modest in their (lack of) attire. The natural, artistic talent of the artist shines through in the superb execution of drawings.

Historically, Roman public baths incorporated a wide array of facilities and baths became common in even the smaller towns of the Roman world, where they were often located near the forum. It was in the large cities that these complexes (balnea or thermae) took on monumental proportions with vast colonnades and wide-spanning arches and domes. Baths were built using millions of fireproof terracotta bricks and the finished buildings were usually sumptuous affairs with fine mosaic floors, marble-covered walls, and decorative statues. Generally opening around lunchtime and open until dusk, baths were accessible to all, both rich and poor. Today they are more commonly referred to as Turkish baths or Hammams and offer separate visiting periods for men and women.

This wonderfully executed depiction was acquired in Tuscany and reframed and glazed in London, UK. It is in fair vintage condition commensurate with age. It is unsigned from the Roman School of artists. Upon request a video of the artwork will be provided.

Dimensions with frame:

H 48.5 cm / 19.1"

W 38.0 cm / 15.0"

Dimensions without frame:

H 34.0 cm / 13.4"

W 24.0 cm / 9.4"