Giovanni Piranesi Etching of Ancient Roman Architecture, 18th Century
"Veduta del Sepolcro della Famiglia Plauzia per la Strada Che Conduce da Roma a Tivoli vicino a Ponte Lugano" from "Le Antichità Romane" (Roman Antiquities), one of the most famous works by Piranesi. "Antichita" illustrates the tombs along the Appian Way and similar areas outside the city. These plates are among Piranesi's most romantic views, dramatically depicting crumbling masonry from low viewpoints with strong light affects and a sense of mystery to the tiny figures of tourists, peasants and goats.
Creator: Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720-1778, Italian)
Creation Year: 1756
Dimensions: Height: 24.38 in (61.93 cm) Width: 31.75 in (80.65 cm) Depth: 0.75 in (1.91 cm)
Medium: Engraving, Etching
Reference: 1627
Condition: See description below.
"Veduta del Sepolcro della Famiglia Plauzia per la Strada Che Conduce da Roma a Tivoli vicino a Ponte Lugano" from "Le Antichità Romane" (Roman Antiquities), one of the most famous works by Piranesi. "Antichita" illustrates the tombs along the Appian Way and similar areas outside the city. These plates are among Piranesi's most romantic views, dramatically depicting crumbling masonry from low viewpoints with strong light affects and a sense of mystery to the tiny figures of tourists, peasants and goats.
Creator: Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720-1778, Italian)
Creation Year: 1756
Dimensions: Height: 24.38 in (61.93 cm) Width: 31.75 in (80.65 cm) Depth: 0.75 in (1.91 cm)
Medium: Engraving, Etching
Reference: 1627
Condition: See description below.
"Veduta del Sepolcro della Famiglia Plauzia per la Strada Che Conduce da Roma a Tivoli vicino a Ponte Lugano" from "Le Antichità Romane" (Roman Antiquities), one of the most famous works by Piranesi. "Antichita" illustrates the tombs along the Appian Way and similar areas outside the city. These plates are among Piranesi's most romantic views, dramatically depicting crumbling masonry from low viewpoints with strong light affects and a sense of mystery to the tiny figures of tourists, peasants and goats.
Creator: Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720-1778, Italian)
Creation Year: 1756
Dimensions: Height: 24.38 in (61.93 cm) Width: 31.75 in (80.65 cm) Depth: 0.75 in (1.91 cm)
Medium: Engraving, Etching
Reference: 1627
Condition: See description below.
The print combines etching, engraving and drypoint techniques. It is signed in the plate in the lower right "Piranesi Archit. dis. et inc.". It is presented in a black wood frame with a tan mat. There is a central vertical fold, as issued. The print is in very good condition but there are a few small frame abrasions.
Piranesi was born in Venice in 1720 and died in Rome in 1778. He was the son of a stone mason and was trained as an architect. After a slow start he eventually achieved great success as an architect, archaeologist, artist, designer, collector, and antiquities dealer. His mission was to glorify the architecture of ancient Rome through his engravings and etchings. His highly dramatized prints often depict imaginary interiors and frequently include figures in mysterious activities, who are dwarfed by the magnitude of their monumental surroundings.
Piranesi's studies of the antiquities of Rome was one of the great archaeological, historical and artistic works of its era. His style greatly influenced the neoclassical art movement of the late 18th century. His dramatic scenes inspired generations of set designers, as well as artists, architects, writers and historians. In 1757 Piranesi was elected as an Honorary Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. His prints have continued to increase in value to institutions and collectors.
