The Roman antiquities, t. 4, Plate XII. View of an entrance to the upper room into the boulder burial d`Elio Adriano. 

Giovanni Battista Piranesi created this print of Hadrian's Tomb in Rome in the 18th century, using etching and engraving techniques. Piranesi was known for his detailed and dramatic depictions of Roman architecture, playing a key role in shaping the era's understanding and appreciation of classical antiquity. This print exemplifies the 18th-century fascination with ancient Rome, and Piranesi's work contributed significantly to the developing field of archaeology. His meticulous renderings of Roman ruins provided valuable insights into the city's past. However, it’s important to remember that Piranesi's images were also artistic interpretations, reflecting his own romanticized vision of Rome's grandeur. The level of detail suggests Piranesi undertook extensive research, including consulting historical texts and conducting on-site observations. This print invites us to consider the evolving relationship between art, history, and the construction of cultural heritage, as well as the institutional frameworks through which that relationship has been expressed.