Temple of Fortuna Virilis, now S. Maria Egizziaca 1741 - 1748

Giovanni Battista Piranesi created this etching of the Temple of Fortuna Virilis in Rome. The composition is dominated by the temple’s classical form, its columns and pediment rendered with careful detail. The image is divided into distinct zones by light and shadow, creating contrasts that draw our eyes to the architectural elements. Note how Piranesi employs precise linework to define the structure of the temple. The etching technique captures the textures of stone and the effects of time, evident in the crumbling details. Piranesi was fascinated by Rome's ancient grandeur and its layered history. He uses perspective and scale to evoke a sense of the sublime. He creates a dialogue between past and present, highlighting the layers of history embedded within the city. Consider how Piranesi uses light and shadow to create depth and texture, turning the etching into a commentary on the interplay between time, architecture, and the subjective experience of space.