Demonstration of the great services of the aforesaid employees Tavern 

Giovanni Battista Piranesi created this etching of a tavern interior in Pompeii sometime before his death in 1778. The rediscovery of Pompeii in 1748 sparked widespread interest in classical antiquity and Piranesi was one of many artists who produced images of the archeological site for scholarly and popular consumption. But what exactly was the public role of these early archeological images? It is important to remember that artistic depictions of classical ruins helped to shape the public perception of Pompeii. Piranesi's image presents a seemingly objective view of a tavern, highlighting the architectural features of the space. However, the addition of idealized figures in classical garb gives a romanticized vision of ancient life. To fully understand these images, historians consult a wide range of sources. These include archeological reports and contemporary travel accounts. By examining the image in relation to these sources we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of art to shape public perceptions of history.