Who painted Plan of Rome?

Plan of Rome was painted by Giovanni Battista Piranesi in 1756.

Where can I see Plan of Rome?

Plan of Rome is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Plan of Rome?

Plan of Rome is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Plan of Rome

Giovanni Battista Piranesi , 1756

Plan of Rome is a print by the Romanticist artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi. It dates from 1756 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Plan of Rome is a print from the first volume of Le Antichità Romane, a comprehensive 27-folio-volume series by Giovanni Battista and Francesco Piranesi, published in Paris between 1800 and 1807. This particular print presents an intricate, layered depiction of ancient Rome.

Subject & Meaning

The print offers a detailed, nuanced visualization of Rome's ancient layout, extending beyond mere cartography to evoke the city's historical presence through crumbling walls, scattered ruins, and meticulous textual annotations. It served both artistic and historical documentation purposes, predating photographic technology.

Technique & Style

Characterized by dense, intricate linework and a focus on texture, the print showcases the Piranesi's mastery of copperplate engraving. The inclusion of layered details, cracked stone, and winding paths creates a tactile, immersive quality, drawing the viewer into the ancient landscape.

History & Provenance

Originally part of Giovanni Battista Piranesi's first edition of Roman Antiquities (1756), this print was later reissued in the Parisian publication. The project, initially sponsored by Lord Charlemont, faced financial complications, leading to the removal of the dedication to Charlemont in later prints. The copperplates are now housed in Rome's Istituto Centrale per la Grafica.

Context

Created in the 18th century, Plan of Rome reflects the era's archaeological and historical interests in classical antiquity. It catered to a growing demand for detailed, accurate representations of ancient sites, facilitating scholarly study and public fascination with Rome's past.

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…