Venduta dell'insigne Basilica Vaticana coll'ampio Portico by Giovanni Battista Piranesi

Venduta dell'insigne Basilica Vaticana coll'ampio Portico 1775

print, etching

aged paper

toned paper

mechanical pen drawing

print

etching

pencil sketch

old engraving style

sketch book

personal sketchbook

pen-ink sketch

pen work

italy

pencil art

This etching by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, titled "Venduta dell'insigne Basilica Vaticana coll'ampio Portico, e Piazza adjacente," depicts the view of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy from above. The image is a detailed representation of the square, including the colonnade, obelisk, and a multitude of figures. Piranesi's meticulous work captures the architectural grandeur of the basilica and the expansive space of the square, while the etching's delicate lines highlight the beauty of the Roman city. Piranesi, known for his evocative depictions of ancient Rome, was a master of the architectural etching, and this work is a testament to his skill.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Though trained as an architect Giovanni Battista Piranesi's greatest monuments appeared on paper. With exceptional theatrical flair, he glorified Rome's accomplishments, both ancient and modern. Here he employs a bird's-eye view to convey the grandeur and splendor of Saint Peter's Basilica and Bernini's colonnade.