Parte di ampio magnifico Porto all'uso degli antichi Romani, ove si scuopre l'interno della gran Piazza pel Comercio... (Part of a spacious and magnificent Harbor for the use of the ancient Romans opening onto a large market square...), from "Opere Varie di Archiettura, prospettive, grotteschi, antichità; inventate, ed incise da Giambattista Piranesi Architetto Veneziano"
Original title: Parte di ampio magnifico Porto all'uso degli antichi Romani, ove si scuopre l'interno della gran Piazza pel Comercio... (Part of a spacious and magnificent Harbor for the use of the ancient Romans opening onto a large market square...), from "Opere Varie di Archiettura, prospettive, grotteschi, antichità; inventate, ed incise da Giambattista Piranesi Architetto Veneziano" (Various Works of Architecture, perspectives, grotesques, and antiquities; designed and etched by Giambattista Piranesi, Venetian Architect)
kurzbeschreibung
Giovanni Battista Piranesi made this etching around 1749–50, and it presents a vast ancient harbour complex. The print belongs to the series Opere Varie di Architettura, prospettive, grotteschi, antichità and was executed as an etching with engraving and drypoint.
Description
Two massive columns stand on a raised platform, adorned with sculptures and reliefs, and they anchor the foreground. Beyond them opens a large round structure with rows of columns and a dome, reminiscent of an ancient theatre. To the left, further columns lead to an additional building. Boats and figures on the water line the lower edge. A turbulent sky with scattered light deepens the architectural space; the monochrome grey scale results from etching and drypoint.
Context
Created around 1749–50 as part of the early Opere Varie series, the sheet combines architectural fantasy with antiquarian motifs. The Venetian artist was then working in Rome, where he engaged closely with ancient building practices. Quotations from real Roman architecture feed into this idealised, invented reconstruction of an ancient harbour. With this series Piranesi consolidated his reputation as a master of architectural etching.
Impact
The monumental colonnade and the deep spatial recession give the print an insistent, almost overwhelming presence. Diffuse light and carefully graded greys create a mood that is dramatic yet elegiac. Thanks to the precise linework, the architectural variety can be followed step by step.
Technique
For fine lines and rich tonal values, Piranesi combined etching, engraving and drypoint. The print is in the second of seven states (according to Robison). The plate measures 40 x 54.5 cm and was printed on a generous sheet of 49.5 x 64 cm.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)