Column group holding two arcs of a large courtyard with fountains and stairs 1750

Giovanni Battista Piranesi made this etching of a courtyard scene sometime in the 18th century. Piranesi was an Italian artist known for his etchings of Roman architecture and ruins. Here, the artist presents a grand courtyard complete with elaborate fountains, columns, and staircases. The image creates a sense of awe and admiration for classical architecture and the power of the Roman Empire. The print shows a public space, but the figures appear small and insignificant against the backdrop of monumental architecture. Piranesi was working at a time when Rome was a popular destination for wealthy Europeans on the Grand Tour. His prints catered to this market, allowing visitors to take home souvenirs of their travels. His work contributed to the growing Neoclassical movement, which sought to revive the artistic and cultural values of ancient Greece and Rome. By studying Piranesi's prints and the culture in which they were produced, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural forces that shaped artistic production in 18th-century Italy.