The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1754: The Palace of Venus in Cyprus

1754

Giuseppe Vasi, after Paolo Posi

Associated Names
Giuseppe Vasi

Etcher, Roman, 1710 - 1782

Paolo Posi

Artist After, Italian, 1708 - 1776

The image displays an ornate architectural structure that resembles a classical facade, possibly a palace or grand pavilion. The horizon line is not defined, as the structure dominates the composition. A grand artistic ornament tops the building, surrounded by swirling cloud-like forms. The artwork features intricate line work reminiscent of engraving, creating depth and texture across elements such as statues and stone masonry. The color palette is monochromatic using shades of gray to emphasize the engraving technique, highlighting architectural details through shadows and highlights. Figures engaged in social interaction and leisurely activities populate the foreground, leading the eye up tiered steps towards the entrance. Symmetrical gardens and carved urns in the distance frame the building, adding balance and grandeur.

Media Options

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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1981

  • Scalabroni, Luisa. Giuseppe Vasi (1710-1782). Rome, 1981, no. 330.

1994

  • Gori Sassoli, Mario. Della Chinea e di altre "Macchine di gioia". Apparati architettonici per fuochi d'artificio a Roma nel Settecento. Milan, 1994, no. 57.

Inscriptions

Lettered LL: "Paolo Posi Architetto inv."
Lettered LR: "Giuseppe Vasi incise"
Lettered LC: "Vi ha chi crede che Partenope altra non fosse che una Eroina la quale seguendo l'augurio delle Colombe cola' approdasse [...] l'anno 1754"

Wikidata ID

Q77258641

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