Andrew and two other Apostles, half-length, three cupids corner sketched by Guercino 

Giovanni Battista Piranesi made this print called "Andrew and two other Apostles, half-length, three cupids corner sketched by Guercino." Made in Italy, Piranesi’s image evokes the grand tradition of religious art, but with a twist. The figures of the apostles, rendered with detailed realism, contrast sharply with the sketch-like quality of the cupids below. This contrast hints at the changing role of religious imagery during the 18th century. While religious themes remained important, artists like Piranesi were also exploring new ways of representing classical subjects, often with a more critical or secular perspective. Piranesi was deeply engaged with the artistic institutions of his time. Prints like these circulated widely, influencing artistic taste and contributing to debates about the role of art in society. To fully understand Piranesi’s work, scholars delve into the printmaking practices of the period, explore the relationship between art and religion, and consider the social and political context in which these images were created and consumed.