Architectural image (Christ driving the merchants out of the temple)

"Architectural image (Christ driving the merchants out of the temple)" is a painting by Giovanni Paolo Panini, created between 1692 and 1765. 



The artwork depicts a scene of Christ driving the merchants from the Temple, set within a grand, classical architectural setting. The scene is dominated by a large, colonnaded structure with multiple arches and receding perspectives, characteristic of Panini's style. 



The figures are relatively small in scale compared to the architecture, emphasizing the grandeur of the building. Christ is centrally positioned, his figure slightly elevated, with his arms raised in a gesture of authority. Surrounding him are numerous figures, some appearing to be merchants or temple officials, engaged in various actions, some fleeing, others seemingly protesting. 



The foreground includes a paved area where some figures are seated or kneeling. To the left, there are trees and a staircase leading to another building, suggesting a complex and expansive setting. The overall palette is muted, with a focus on the interplay of light and shadow within the architectural space. The painting is 1.35 meters wide and 0.975 meters high and is part of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.