Let's move to 18th-century Rome!
Giovanni Battista Piranesi was an Italian classical archaeologist, architect, and artist famous for his etchings of Rome and of fictitious and atmospheric "prisons." Piranesi’s intimate knowledge of the Colosseum and his mastery of perspective culminates in this breathtaking aerial depiction of the ancient amphitheater. Piranesi emphasizes its immense scale by allowing the Colosseum to dominate the entire sheet and placing minuscule figures at its center. At the same time, the bird's-eye perspective reveals its architectural plan and structural details in striking clarity.
Piranesi’s meticulous labels reflect his deep antiquarian research. They detail the seating arrangements for different ranks of Roman society, from the emperor and his court to noble youths and their tutors. This scholarly attention situates the viewer within the monument's historical context, highlighting its social and architectural significance.
The dramatic lighting, characteristic of Piranesi’s late Vedute (cityscapes), bathes the Colosseum in an eerie, moonlit glow. The arena’s center is illuminated, drawing attention to the small figures gathered around a monumental cross. Pope Benedict XIV installed this cross, along with the surrounding Stations of the Cross, in 1743 to sanctify the space, which was believed to be the site of early Christian martyrdom.
P.S. You've probably seen Piranesi's work before. His detailed style of portraying antiquities is today regarded as iconic. But how much do you know about the famous artist himself? Here are 7 things you need to know about Giovanni Battista Piranesi!
P.P.S. The Colosseum is an iconic monument of art! If you love iconic and classic works of art, you should check out our bestselling postcard set with Great Masterpieces. :)