Artwork
Scherzo with Antique Figures
Scherzo with Antique Figures is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi. It dates from 1744 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Scherzo with Antique Figures is a 1744 drawing by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, created with pen and brown ink, brown wash, and red chalk on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a chaotic, classical scene with figures in antique dress, caught in dynamic movement. Their poses are exaggerated, blending realism with a sense of wildness, and the composition is playful and whimsical.
Technique & Style
Piranesi employed loose, expressive lines and quick strokes to convey energy, using varying densities of ink and wash to create contrast and depth. The technique gives the impression of rapid execution, with visible scribbles and smudges contributing to the overall effect.
History & Provenance
Created during Piranesi's early career in Rome, this work reflects his interests as an Italian classical archaeologist, architect, and printmaker. The drawing is mounted on remnants of the artist's original paper.
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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