18th - Early 19th Century Francesco Piranessi Engraving

Item Details

A late 18th to early 19th-century engraving by Francesco Piranesi (Rome 1758/59 – 23 January 1810) from his ‘Vases’ series, Francesco was the son of the famous engraver Giovanni Battista Piranesi and was taught the art by his father. His ‘Vases’ series was inspired by trips with his father to ancient Roman ruins. This fine hand colored etching depicts one such Roman handled vase with a lion and bull to top and is heavily adorned in Grecian motif, Italian writing to etching reads "Great Ancient vase of marble, which is seen in the Museum of the Author whose pedestal is adorned with sculptures and; elegant carvings. In the middle of bassorilievo and figured the music indicated by the celestial globe that has a lyre with her hand topside to do honor to two Damsels , one kneeling ; the other standing , which gives the drink offering. The two side masks are symbols of the same . Leo then oppressing the ox , means the weakness of human life at Terrata, the power of death." The center lettering to bottom translates to "To Mr. Edward Knight, Rider, English, amateur lover of fine art". This piece is framed in a multi-beveled wood with hunter green marbled embellishment and a gold tone finish with paper backing and wire for hanging. Paper label to back reads "Catalda Fine Arts, Inc. NY, NY"

Condition

- yellowing to paper consistent with age, one small age spot

Dimensions

Item #

15CIN515-037