Artwork

Title Page of Raccolta di alcuni disegni del Barberi da Cento detto il Guercino

Title Page of Raccolta di alcuni disegni del Barberi da Cento detto il Guercino is a print by the Romanticist artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi. It dates from 1764 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This print is the title page for a collection of drawings by the artist known as Guercino.

About this work

The text at the bottom names a collection of drawings by someone called *Barberi da Cento*, later known as Guercino.

This sketch shows a tired-looking man slumped on a rock, holding a broken spear. Around him, a wild landscape with trees and a stormy sky fills the background. The lines are rough and busy, giving everything a dramatic, sketchy feel.

The text at the bottom names a collection of drawings by someone called *Barberi da Cento*, later known as Guercino. This print was made in 1764 by an artist who loved etching detailed scenes.

Next, check out Giovanni Battista Piranesi—he made this kind of dramatic, sketchy print style famous.

Overview

This print is the title page for a collection of drawings by the artist known as Guercino. Created in 1764 by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, it is an etching that showcases his distinctive style.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a weary figure resting on a rock, grasping a broken spear, set against a turbulent landscape with trees and a stormy sky. The image conveys a sense of drama and abandon.

Technique & Style

The etching is characterized by rough, busy lines that give the scene a sketchy, dynamic feel. Piranesi's use of line and texture creates a sense of energy and movement.

History & Provenance

The print is now held at The Cleveland Museum of Art. It was created as the title page for 'Raccolta di alcuni disegni del Barberi da Cento detto il Guercino', a collection of drawings by Guercino.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giovanni Battista Piranesi

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…