
Guided tour led by archaeologist Dr Andrew Lane on how artists have used archaeological discoveries to depict the classical world, with a rare view of Alan Sorrell's 'Londinium Romanum'.
Painting Antiquity: Archaeology and its Use runs at the Guildhall Art Gallery on Saturday 24 October, with two tours to choose from: one at 11am and another at 2pm. Both last about an hour and are led by archaeologist Dr Andrew Lane.
The tour looks at how archaeological discoveries have shaped the way artists depict the classical world. It traces a shift that happened as modern archaeological practice took hold in the 19th century: as more was unearthed, artists began to build increasing levels of detail and realism into their work. It's a look at where art and archaeology intersect, and how the two have fed into each other over the centuries.
There's a specific highlight that makes this one worth it. You'll get a rare look at Alan Sorrell's reconstruction of Roman London, Londinium Romanum, which isn't usually on public display. It's a piece that brings the city's Roman past back into view, and seeing it in person gives a real sense of what the tour is about.
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The walk takes you through the Guildhall Art Gallery and London's Roman Amphitheatre, both in Guildhall Yard, EC2V 5AE. It's wheelchair accessible, and foldable stools are available if you'd rather sit for a bit. There's a suggested minimum age of 15. Tickets are £7.50, and with the 11am and 2pm slots, you can fit it in as a morning thing or a proper afternoon out.