Dedicatory letter in italics italics, dated July 20, 1748 

This etching by Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi, from the 18th century, depicts a scene of Roman ruins. Piranesi was known for his dramatic and evocative depictions of ancient Rome, using the technique of etching to create detailed and atmospheric images. This particular piece, likely from his "Vedute di Roma", captures a sense of grandeur and decay, with the crumbling arches and overgrown foliage evoking a bygone era.