Detail, Vittorio Emanuele II Monument, Rome

There are many impressive moments to experience visiting this tribute to the unification of modern Italy. This watercolor snapshot captures the ascending design of the architecture, culminating in two temples conjoined by a massive, curved colonnade where one can overlook the remains of ancient Rome. Sculptures at many levels tell the story of the establishment of the nation within a modelled framework inspired by the Pergamon Altar and other ancient architectural precedents.