Jars of clay and glass found in Pompeii 

Giovanni Battista Piranesi made this etching titled "Jars of clay and glass found in Pompeii." Note the interplay between the rough texture of the pottery and the clear, smooth surfaces of the glass, reflecting light in stark contrast. The composition is divided into two horizontal planes: the upper one containing the backdrop of dense foliage, and the lower one displaying an assemblage of vessels. Piranesi uses a limited tonal range, yet achieves a sense of depth through varied line weights and hatching techniques. This creates a rich interplay of light and shadow. The objects are carefully arranged, each one possessing its unique silhouette, from the simple cylinders to the more ornate jars with handles. These visual elements are part of a larger cultural discourse around archaeology and the fascination with antiquity during the 18th century. Piranesi masterfully communicates not just the physical attributes but also the historical weight of these everyday objects.