Interior of the Cathedral, Pisa
- David Roberts, Scottish, British, 1796-1864
David Roberts
British, 1796–1864
Interior of the Cathedral, Pisa, 1859
Oil paint on canvas
Signed and dated at lower right, David Roberts, R.A. 1859
Gift of the Berger Collection Educational Trust, 2018.16
David Roberts apprenticed with a house painter, training his eye for fine detail by replicating intricate stone tracery and delicate wood grain, then worked as a theater set designer, learning about the dramatic potential of architectural representation. When he turned full-time to his own painting at the age of thirty-four, he deployed these experiences to great success in works such as the Berger picture. A master at subtly manipulating space for maximum dramatic effect, he conveyed the cathedral’s great depth by placing figures at different locations within the nave, their sizes diminishing as they approach the high altar.
- “Treasures from the Berger Collection: British Paintings 1400-2000” — Denver Art Museum, 10/2/2014 – 9/9/2018