Vedute di Roma 

Giovanni Battista Piranesi made this print as part of his "Vedute di Roma" series. These views of Rome were aimed at the Grand Tour market. Piranesi's Rome catered to the tastes of wealthy northerners who desired classical grandeur. The etchings highlight the imposing scale of Roman architecture, often exaggerating the proportions to create a sense of awe. Notice how the tiny figures scattered throughout the scene emphasize the immensity of the architectural space. Piranesi's work tapped into a broader cultural obsession with the classical past that was closely tied to contemporary debates about civic virtue and political power. While these prints seemingly celebrate Rome's ancient glory, they also comment on the city's state in the 18th century. Art historians use sources, like travel journals, guidebooks, and architectural treatises, to reconstruct the complex cultural meanings embedded in Piranesi's work. By doing this we can appreciate how images are active participants in cultural and social life.