Giovanni Paolo Panini was famous for his views of Rome, its monuments and ruins. This capriccio, or imaginary view, and its pendant nearby combine elements taken from actual ancient sculpture and architecture to produce pleasing stage sets populated by washerwomen, soldiers, and fanciful figures. Though he worked exclusively in Rome, Panini enjoyed a large British clientele, comprised chiefly of young men passing through Italy on a cultural pilgrimage then known as the Grand Tour. Panini’s views made handsome travel souvenirs. The ornate frames on this pair were made in England and likely reflect the pictures’ early ownership by a British collector.