Profiles in large Ionic order forming the upper part of the tomb 

This etching, created by the renowned Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi, is titled "Vue exterieure de la porte principale du tombeau de Mausole" (External view of the main gate of the Mausoleum). Known for his dramatic architectural fantasies and meticulous renderings of ancient Roman ruins, Piranesi captures the grandeur and mystery of a monumental tomb. The composition features a massive gateway, a towering wall, and a figure resting in the foreground, creating a sense of awe and intrigue. The use of light and shadow further enhances the architectural details and adds depth to the scene. This piece exemplifies Piranesi's fascination with the past and his ability to evoke both the beauty and the power of classical architecture.