Ross Burns: Beyond the Grand Tour
19 November 2008
BEYOND THE GRAND TOUR: PALMYRA THROUGH THE EYES OF THE 18TH CENTURY FRENCH ARTIST LOUIS-FRANÇOIS CASSAS
Louis-François Cassas, a French artist, was one of the first 'neo-classical' European visitors to Palmyra. In 1751 the English travellers, Wood and Dawkins had opened the eyes of Europe to the rich store of classical architecture in the fabled caravan city, more intact than anything to be mseen in Greece or Italy.
Cassas visited 34 years later, stayed longer and brought the skill of a draughtsman to his task. Over the following decades he produced scores of memorable lithographs and paintings of his visit.
This richly educated lecture traces the course of Louis-François Cassas' eventful visit to Palmyra and how what he depicted can still give us new insights into the condition of Palmyra 200 years ago.
Time: 6 for 6.30 pm
Location: The Nicholson Museum, Quadrangle
Cost: $25 ($20 friends of Nicholson and NEAF members)
Contact: Michael Turner
Phone: 9351 2812