Front and rear view of the same chair depicted in the three preceding etchings 1769 - 1778

This etching by Giovanni Battista Piranesi depicts two views of an ornate chair, showcasing its intricate design. Note the curious figures flanking the chair's sides. On one view, we see sphinx-like forms, recalling ancient Egypt and the guardians of sacred spaces. These motifs, echoing through time, appear in various guises across cultures. Consider the winged bulls of Assyria or the temple guardians of Southeast Asia. They represent power, protection, and the enigmatic blend of human and animal traits. In Piranesi’s vision, these figures evoke a sense of timeless authority. Observe how the stoic figures, with their composite features, engage our subconscious. They stand as silent witnesses, their gaze fixed, inviting contemplation on the cyclical nature of power and the endurance of symbols. Their emotional resonance lies in their ability to tap into our collective memory, evoking a sense of awe and mystery that transcends mere aesthetic appreciation. These images remind us that symbols never truly vanish; they resurface, transformed, carrying echoes of past meanings into the present.