G.B. Piranesi
The "Views of Rome" (Vedute di Roma) by Giovanni Battista Piranesi are perhaps the most popular architectural engravings produced by this very prolific Roman artist. The views of Roman monuments still in existence are particularly popular. During his lifetime, Piranesi published three editions of each view. After his death in 1778 the copperplates were purchased by a Parisian publisher, Firmin-Didot, who issued, during the period 1800-1839, three editions of these plates. The splendid examples which we are offering here come from the Intermediate Paris edition 1807-1835. The dimensions of each of these are 21½" high by 15½" wide. The condition of the paper is superb. The horizontal crease across the middle of each results from their having been originally folded and bound into a volume. While they do not detract from the beauty of the engravings, they could be flattened easily by a professional paper restorer.
 Colonna Antonina (Column of Marcus Aurelius, Rome) SOLD |
 Colonna Trajana (Trajan's Column, Rome) SOLD |
Certainly the foremost Roman artist of the 18th Century was Giuseppe Vasi, who followed the earlier artist Canaletto. When the young Piranesi arrived in Rome from Venice, it is believed that he studied under Vasi, adopting many of his artistic techniques, such as showing ancient Roman ruins being visited by 18th Century figures. In the 1740 period, Vasi published some extremely attractive engravings, giving equal "billing" to his student, Piranesi. Shown below is a splendid example of this joint workmanship. The dimensions are 9" high by 13" wide. The condition of the piece is very good, with some wrinkling and perforation in the clear margin, well away from the image area. This fine engraving is an ideal addition to any Piranesi collection. SOLD
The Remains of the Portico of the Temple of Jupiter and of the Temple of Fortune
(Click on image to enlarge)