Antique vase of basalt found on the Quirinal in 1772 

This etching by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, a renowned Italian artist, depicts an antique basalt vase discovered on the Quirinal Hill in Rome in 1772. The detailed rendering showcases the vase's intricate design, including its flared body, ornate handles adorned with sculpted heads, and a pedestal base. Piranesi's work was a significant contribution to the Neoclassical movement, as it showcased a renewed interest in classical art and design. This etching, like much of his work, captures the beauty and grandeur of Roman antiquities, which served as a source of inspiration for artists and architects during the 18th century.