A marble plaque with the inscription: Roman Antiquities outside of Rome, drawn and engraved by Venetian architect Giambattista Piranesi, Part Two 1748

This etching by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, titled "Tempio di Pola in Istria," is part of his 1748 series "Roman Antiquities outside of Rome, drawn and engraved by Venetian architect Giambattista Piranesi, Part Two." Piranesi was renowned for his dramatic depictions of Roman ruins, and this print showcases his characteristic attention to detail and use of light and shadow. The image features a ruined temple, set against a backdrop of trees and a cloudy sky. The temple's grandeur is emphasized by its crumbling state, highlighting the passage of time and the enduring power of Roman architecture. Piranesi's prints were influential in shaping the Romantic view of ancient ruins, contributing to the fascination with classical history and aesthetics.