The Pier with a Lamp 1748 - 1749

"The Pier with a Lamp" is an etching created by the Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi, notable for his depictions of Roman architecture, in 1748-1749. The artwork, housed at the Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK), showcases Piranesi's signature style, characterized by detailed, almost fantastical, representations of architectural structures. The print features a complex composition with multiple overlapping arches and intricate details, creating a sense of grandeur and mystery. The dramatic use of light and shadow adds to the piece's depth, inviting viewers to explore its captivating perspective. Piranesi's masterful command of line and texture, combined with the architectural grandeur of the subject, elevates this etching to a significant piece within his artistic repertoire.