Roman Prison

Giovanni Battista Piranesi, second half 18th century

This is a painting of a grand architectural interior with a network of staircases. The image features a vast, labyrinthine space with multiple levels and arches. The central focus is a large pillar with a decorated capital, supporting a high arched ceiling. Staircases lead up and down in various directions, creating a sense of depth and complexity. The walls are adorned with classical architectural elements such as pediments and pilasters, and an intricate railing runs along the staircases. The painting uses a palette of earthy tones, highlighting the rustic textures of stone and brick. The style is reminiscent of Giovanni Battista Piranesi.
Artist
Giovanni Battista Piranesi
Date
second half 18th century
Type
Drawing
Medium
pen and black ink with brown and gray wash heightened with white gouache over traces of graphite on laid paper
Dimensions
21.3 × 15.5 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a painting of a grand architectural interior with a network of staircases. The image features a vast, labyrinthine space with multiple levels and arches. The central focus is a large pillar with a decorated capital, supporting a high arched ceiling. Staircases lead up and down in various directions, creating a sense of depth and complexity. The walls are adorned with classical architectural elements such as pediments and pilasters, and an intricate railing runs along the staircases. The painting uses a palette of earthy tones, highlighting the rustic textures of stone and brick. The style is reminiscent of Giovanni Battista Piranesi.

Giovanni Battista Piranesi