Meta Sudans near the Colosseum Vintage Art Print

Giacomo Lauro (Italian, active c. 1612–1637)

Meta Sudans
From Antiquae Urbis Splendor (Splendor of the Ancient City), Rome, 1612–1637
Engraving with later hand-coloring

This engraving depicts the Meta Sudans, the monumental conical fountain that once stood beside the Colosseum at the junction of several triumphal routes in ancient Rome. Constructed under the Flavian emperors in the late first century CE, the fountain was so named (“sweating cone”) because water seeped through numerous small apertures, giving the impression of perspiration.

Lauro’s print includes a descriptive Latin caption:

“Meta Sudans was an ancient Roman fountain, in the shape of a cone, set beside the Flavian Amphitheatre. It was called sudans because water issued forth like sweat from many small openings. Built in the time of the Flavian emperors to adorn the place where triumphs of conquerors were celebrated and for the people’s use, it was surrounded by marble basins into which the water flowed, from which the thirsty could drink. Today scarcely a few traces remain.”

The engraving belongs to Lauro’s celebrated Antiquae Urbis Splendor, a monumental illustrated series published between 1612 and 1637, which systematically recorded Rome’s ancient monuments. Lauro’s plates are recognizable by their bold titling, lengthy descriptive texts, and animated foreground scenes of contemporary Romans. The Meta Sudans plate is a key visual record of a structure now lost: Mussolini demolished the fountain’s remains in 1936–37 during his redesign of the Colosseum’s surroundings. Ideal for history enthusiasts and anyone who loves Rome, this print serves as a beautiful focal point in your home office, living room, or gallery wall. Perfect for gifting on occasions like housewarmings, birthdays, or holidays, this artwork will delight anyone with sophisticated taste. Celebrate creativity and bring joy to your surroundings with this exquisite piece.

Product features
- Pigmented archival inks for enduring color vibrancy.
- Museum grade paper ensures long-lasting quality without yellowing.
- Versatile hanging options: double-sided tape, tacks, or framed.
- Hefty paper weight of 5.6 oz/y² for a premium feel.
- Available in multiple sizes to fit any space.

Care instructions
- If the poster does gather any dust, you may wipe it off gently with a clean, dry cloth.