Aerial view of the Arelate amphitheater (Arles). The drawing is in landscape format, organized within a frame drawn in ink. Traces of watercolor are visible in the margins. Inscriptions appear on the reverse.
The drawing shows the city’s amphitheater. Elliptical in shape, it rises to two storeys of arcaded galleries, surmounted by an attic. The scene shows the amphitheatre during a morning performance. The velum has not yet been drawn. The spectators, seated on the tiers, are about to watch a hunting show (venationes). Traps are set up in the arena to create theatrical effects. Food and beverage stalls are set up at the foot of the façade.