Klerisso, Charles-Louis – The lobby of the palace of Emperor Diocletian in Split (2) Hermitage ~ part 06

The drawing presents a vast interior space, seemingly a grand lobby or courtyard within a monumental structure. The architecture dominates the composition; it is characterized by repetitive arcades supported by substantial columns, suggesting a Roman imperial origin. These colonnades extend deep into the picture plane, creating a sense of immense scale and depth. Light filters in from above, illuminating portions of the space while leaving others in shadow, which enhances the perception of volume and complexity.
The artist has rendered the stone surfaces with varying degrees of detail, indicating age and weathering. Patches of vegetation sprout from crevices within the walls, further emphasizing the passage of time and a sense of abandonment or decay. The upper reaches of the structure are partially obscured by what appears to be rubble and remnants of collapsed sections, hinting at a history of damage or neglect.
Several figures populate the scene. They appear as individuals engaged in various activities: some are seated, seemingly resting; others are working with ropes and equipment, possibly involved in restoration or salvage efforts. Their presence introduces a human element into this otherwise imposing architectural setting, providing a scale reference and suggesting ongoing interaction with the space.
The overall tone is one of melancholic grandeur. The depiction conveys not only the magnificence of the original construction but also its vulnerability to time and circumstance. Theres an underlying narrative implied – a story of imperial power, subsequent decline, and perhaps, a tentative attempt at preservation or re-engagement with a forgotten past. The composition’s emphasis on perspective and light contributes to a feeling of awe mixed with a sense of loss.