Lot no. 66
PIRANESI, Giovanni Battista (1720-1778). Trofeo o sia magnifica colonna coclide di marmo. [Rome, 1775]. A series of twelve framed plates, amongst them the plate of the Trajan Column fully unfolded in an impressive frame over three metres long. The entire set is uniformly presented in double-glass frames, coordinated to enhance the visual and documentary impact of one of the most significant engraving projects of the eighteenth century. Originally, the collection included three series of engravings devoted to Rome's monumental columns: Trajan's Column, the Column of Antoninus Pius, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius. The undertaking involved a detailed and systematic survey conducted with essential contributions from Piranesi's workshop, particularly his son Francesco Piranesi and the draughtsman Vincenzo Dolcibene. A suspended gondola was used to document the high-relief carvings on the upper parts, while scaffolding supported work on the lower sections. The plates, in keeping with architectural survey standards, include layout plans, scale measurements, and height indications in Roman palms, providing both a technical and artistic rendering of these masterpieces of imperial architecture. 12 framed plates of various sizes (the largest measuring 2900 x 710mm within the frame). Plates 3-14, all elegantly framed in modern double-glass frames: one large frame hosts the three recomposed sheets forming the complete Trajan Column in a striking composition over three metres long; followed by one plate showing the internal structure of the column; six framed plates showing the base, the four sides of the marble pedestal with the bas-reliefs, and the engraved frontispiece dedicated to the Dacian triumphs; and four plates depicting engineering details of the column's interior. (12)
See original version (Italian)
Pictures credits: Contact organization
Books, Manuscripts and Comic books
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BOOKS AND MANUSCRIPTS
20123 Milano - Italy
07/15/2025
Offered by Wannenes Art Auctions
+390102530097