Uele, Jean-Pierre-Laurent. The ruins of the ancient structures of giant stones Tadarnadur Izrira in Malta Hermitage ~ part 12

The drawing presents a landscape dominated by monumental stone structures, rendered in a monochrome palette that emphasizes texture and atmospheric perspective. Here we see a sprawling field punctuated by imposing vertical forms – remnants of what appear to be ancient architectural constructions. These stones are weathered and fragmented, suggesting considerable age and the effects of time’s passage.
The artist has positioned several figures within this landscape to provide scale and context. A group of men, dressed in period attire, are actively engaged with the stone structures; one appears to be wielding a tool against a fallen block, while another seems to be examining or measuring it. The presence of these individuals suggests an ongoing investigation or perhaps even an attempt at reconstruction. A cart pulled by mules is visible on the left side of the composition, further reinforcing the idea of human interaction with and manipulation of the site. Dogs accompany the men, adding a touch of everyday life to the scene.
The sky occupies a significant portion of the drawing, filled with billowing clouds that contribute to a sense of drama and vastness. The light source appears to be diffused, casting soft shadows and creating an overall melancholic mood.
Subtly, the work conveys themes of antiquity, exploration, and human interaction with the past. The scale of the stone structures dwarfs the figures, highlighting their insignificance in comparison to the enduring power of time and history. There is a sense of mystery surrounding these ruins; the artist does not offer an explanation for their existence or purpose, leaving room for speculation and interpretation. The active engagement of the men suggests both curiosity and perhaps a desire to understand or reclaim a lost heritage. The drawing seems to ponder the relationship between humanity and its historical legacy, presenting a scene that is at once evocative and enigmatic.