This is an image of classical architectural ruins. The scene shows a grand, symmetrical composition with classical architectural elements like columns, entablatures, and pediments. At the center background, there is a domed building. In the foreground, there are overturned and scattered stone blocks, suggesting ruins that lead towards the central structure. Two obelisks stand in the middle ground, surrounded by classical motifs such as urns and stone carvings. The sky has horizontal strokes indicating clouds. The image conveys grandeur and historical majesty, typical of classical architecture, with a play of light and shadows enhancing detail and depth.
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This is an image of classical architectural ruins. The scene shows a grand, symmetrical composition with classical architectural elements like columns, entablatures, and pediments. At the center background, there is a domed building. In the foreground, there are overturned and scattered stone blocks, suggesting ruins that lead towards the central structure. Two obelisks stand in the middle ground, surrounded by classical motifs such as urns and stone carvings. The sky has horizontal strokes indicating clouds. The image conveys grandeur and historical majesty, typical of classical architecture, with a play of light and shadows enhancing detail and depth.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Architectural Fantasy with Obelisks, Ruins, and a Piazza

Giuseppe Antonio Landi

Date
before 1753
Medium
etching and engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 16.2 x 18.1 cm (6 3/8 x 7 1/8 in.) sheet: 23.8 x 34 cm (9 3/8 x 13 3/8 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
1982.24.2
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Time span
1701 to 1725
Department
CG-E

Portfolio and series

Series
Alcune Prospettive: pl.1

Subjects and terms

  • fantasy
  • architecture
  • Bolognese
Inscription

upper right in plate: 1; lower right in plate: Ant.Landi / In; et f

NGA object ID 61144. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.