The Roman antiquities, t. 1, Plate XXV. Santo Stefano Rotondo. 1756

Giovanni Battista Piranesi created this etching of Santo Stefano Rotondo, one of Rome’s oldest churches. The image is dominated by a dense forest of columns that recede into shadow, creating a powerful sense of depth and architectural complexity. The monochromatic palette and intricate linework emphasize the texture of the ancient stone. Piranesi masterfully uses perspective to draw the viewer's eye deeper into the space, creating a sublime effect. The architecture isn’t merely represented; it’s re-imagined as a theatrical space. By playing with scale and light, Piranesi destabilizes our sense of space and proportion. Notice the sharp contrasts between light and shadow, a technique that heightens the drama and intensifies the emotional impact. Piranesi’s etching serves not just as a record but as an interpretation, reflecting the 18th-century fascination with classical antiquity. The architectural detail and dramatic lighting combine to evoke a sense of awe and the sublime.