Artwork
Antiquities of Rome: The Appian Way
Antiquities of Rome: The Appian Way is a print by the Baroque artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi. It dates from 1756 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
You see a detailed view of the Appian Way in Rome.
The scene is filled with ancient ruins and people walking around.
Giovanni Battista Piranesi drew this scene to show what Rome looked like in the 18th century, which is interesting because it gives us a glimpse of the past.
You can learn more about this style by looking into the technique of chiaroscuro.
Overview
Antiquities of Rome: The Appian Way is an etching by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, dating to circa 1756, currently in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a detailed scene of the Appian Way in Rome, showcasing ancient ruins amidst everyday life, with figures navigating the historic landscape. Piranesi's work captures the state of Rome in the 18th century, offering a historical snapshot.
Technique & Style
Piranesi employed chiaroscuro, a strong contrast between light and dark, to enhance the dramatic and textual qualities of the ancient structures and the bustling activity around them.
History & Provenance
Created around 1756, the etching is part of Piranesi's broader series documenting Roman antiquities. It is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Giovanni Battista (or Giambattista) Piranesi (Italian pronunciation: ; also known as simply Piranesi; 4 October 1720 – 9 November 1778) was an Italian classical archaeologist, architect, and artist, famous for his…
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Veduta ... delle Terme di Tito
View of the Colosseum with the Palatine in the Background
The Baths of Diocletian
Second View of the Colosseum
The Septizonium and the Colosseum
Ruins
The Ruins of the Colosseum
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