The Well

published 1749/1750

Giovanni Battista Piranesi

Associated Names
Giovanni Battista Piranesi

Artist, Venetian, 1720 - 1778

This is a drawing of an architectural scene. The composition depicts a grand, labyrinthine interior space filled with elaborate masonry and towering structures. In the foreground, substantial machinery and scaffolding can be seen. The midground features stairs leading to different levels of the structure, with stone figures and decorative elements. Light and shadow provide depth to the architecture. The drawing captures a complex interplay of structural elements and textures, creating a dramatic atmosphere. This architectural fantasy is reminiscent of the works typical of Giovanni Battista Piranesi, known for his engravings of imaginary prisons and monumental architectural subjects.

Media Options

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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1918

  • Focillon 36.

1922

  • Hind 13.

1986

  • Robison, Andrew. Piranesi Early Architectural Fantasies: A Catalogue Raisonne of the Etchings. Washington: National Gallery of Art; Chicago and London: The University of Chicago Press, 1986.

Watermarks

Fleur-de-lis (Robison 5)

Wikidata ID

Q65568943

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