Frontispiece, with Statue of Minerva, from "Vedute di Roma" 1743 - 1753

This etching, created by Italian artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi between 1743 and 1753, is the frontispiece from his renowned series "Vedute di Roma". Piranesi's etching showcases the dramatic grandeur of Roman ruins, with towering columns and overgrown foliage. The central figure of Minerva, goddess of wisdom and warfare, embodies the enduring legacy of Roman civilization. The use of chiaroscuro, creating dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, adds to the sense of awe and mystery surrounding these ancient remnants. This intricate etching, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to Piranesi's mastery of perspective and detail.