Marble tomb found in 1765 on the Via Labicana together with two vases and a lamp 

This print, made by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, depicts a marble tomb found in 1765 on the Via Labicana, along with vases and a lamp. Piranesi meticulously renders the artifacts, focusing on their structure and ornate details. The composition is dominated by a symmetrical arrangement, emphasizing the tomb as a central vertical axis. Note how the repetitive patterns, from the Greek key design on the base to the fluted column and the tiered structure of the tomb itself, create a visual rhythm. This echoes the classical ideals of order and harmony, yet Piranesi's dramatic use of light and shadow introduces a dynamic tension. Consider how these formal choices intersect with the prevailing cultural fascination with antiquity during the 18th century. Piranesi's detailed engravings were not merely documentation; they actively shaped the perception of classical grandeur, influencing architectural and artistic tastes. The objects aren’t simply presented, they are staged to convey a sense of historical weight.