View of the Pantheon, Interior 18th-19th century

Editor: This is Francesco Piranesi's "View of the Pantheon, Interior." The cross-hatching is so detailed. What strikes me is how he emphasizes the space with these small figures. How do you read this piece? Curator: I notice Piranesi’s focus on the labor involved in representing this architectural marvel. Consider the sheer volume of lines etched to create this print, mimicking the Pantheon's monumental scale. Editor: So, it's about the *making* of the image reflecting the building itself? Curator: Exactly! It highlights the consumption of art and architecture, raising questions about value and the means of production. What was luxury then, and what does it mean now? Editor: I hadn't thought about the work *behind* the work that way. Thanks!