Chimneypiece: Frieze of trophies and winged Victories on the lintel, with cornucopias to either side of the jambs decorated with varied reliefs (Ch. décorée d'une grecque), from Diverse Maniere d'adornare i cammini ed ogni altra parte degli edifizi...(Different Ways of ornamenting chimneypieces and all other parts of houses)
Original title: Chimneypiece: Frieze of trophies and winged Victories on the lintel, with cornucopias to either side of the jambs decorated with varied reliefs (Ch. décorée d'une grecque), from Diverse Maniere d'adornare i cammini ed ogni altra parte degli edifizi...(Different Ways of ornamenting chimneypieces and all other parts of houses)
kurzbeschreibung
This etching appeared around 1769 in Giovanni Battista Piranesi's pattern book Diverse Maniere d'adornare i cammini ed ogni altra parte degli edifizi. It presents an ornamental fireplace design: a frieze with trophies and winged victories runs across the lintel, while cornucopias sit on the jambs. Ancient signs of victory and fertility come together in a deliberate decorative scheme.
Description
The layout is strictly axial, centred on a middle group of trophies in the frieze. To either side stand winged victory figures on columns and pedestals. The fireplace jambs carry figural reliefs and Greek ornamental bands (grecque). Set into the base below the fireplace is another relief with a reclining figure and two angels. Fine hatching models the monochrome etching; cast shadows are left out.
Context
In 1769 Piranesi brought out the Diverse Maniere, amid his archaeological and architectural studies of ancient Rome. He turned increasingly to interior design and ornament, prompted by excavations and the recording of antique finds. The sample sheets served as models for fireplaces and other interior decorations in the neoclassical taste. They were aimed at architects, craftsmen and clients with an interest in classicizing interiors.
Impact
The clear symmetry and calm lines evoke the order of classical architecture. Elements of victory and abundance combine into a festive, formal mood that makes the fireplace stand out as the focal point of the room.
Technique
An etching: the lines were bitten into a copper plate. Fine hatching and even lighting show Piranesi's assured command of the process. It was printed on laid paper; the plate measures 25 x 39 cm, the sheet 39.5 x 55 cm.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)