Giovanni Battista Piranesi (1720–1778) – Grand'Urna di marmo... | Authentic 1756 Architectural Etching

Elevate your fine art collection with this extraordinary, authentic 18th-century copperplate etching by the legendary master of classical antiquity, Giovanni Battista Piranesi. Published in Rome in 1756 as part of his monumental four-volume archaeological masterpiece, Le Antichità Romane, this sheet is designated as Plate XXXIII from Volume II (Tom. II). The engraving beautifully illustrates a monumental Roman marble sarcophagus discovered in the 16th century at Monte del Grano. Historically believed to belong to Emperor Severus Alexander and his mother Julia Mamaea, modern scholarship celebrates this exquisite piece as the Sarcophagus of Achilles—the very monument that once contained the world-famous Portland Vase. This rare acquisition is proudly offered as part of the curated hpmurr Antique collection, presenting a marvelous opportunity for discerning collectors to own a piece of architectural history. Condition & Characteristics: • Artist: Giovanni Battista Piranesi (Italian, 1720–1778). Figures engraved by Jean Barbault. the original plate reads "Piranesi archit. dis. ed inc. Barbault scolpì le figure", confirming that French artist Jean Barbault was brought in specifically to engrave the figures. • Medium: Authentic copperplate etching on historical handmade laid paper (carta vergata). • Inking: Exceptionally bold, crisp, and richly inked impression with dramatic contrast. • Patina: Exhibits an elegant, authentic antique patina with natural overall toning and minor spotting (foxing) that validates its age without distracting from the breathtaking precision of the artwork. ________________________________________ Interior Design Placement & Versatility This magnificent architectural engraving is a masterpiece of historical detail, making it highly versatile for sophisticated interior concepts. Because of its large scale, dramatic linework, and neutral palette, it introduces an immediate sense of scale, scholarship, and history to a space. Design Placements: • The Executive Study or Library: Hang this etching directly above a dark wood or modern marble desk, or feature it between built-in bookshelves to anchor a space dedicated to intellect, history, and classical study. • The Formal Dining Room: Place it centrally over a buffet table or sideboard. Flanked by a pair of modern or antique sconces, its rich, dark ink lines will provide an elegant focal point during candlelit dinners. • The Grand Entryway: Position this plate in a foyer or gallery hallway. Large-scale architectural works on paper signal an air of timeless sophistication the moment a guest crosses the threshold. • A Visual Anchor in Symmetric Gallery Walls: Pair this engraving with other architectural plates from the same period to construct a stunning, floor-to-ceiling grid array. Design Styling Versatility: • Classic & Traditional: Mount the print inside a traditional, hand-gilded gold leaf frame with a silk-covered mat board to embrace an authentic, Old World European aesthetic. • Contemporary & Transitional: Contrast the historical nature of the print by choosing a minimalist, slim black matte steel frame with a generous white rag-mat border. This "floating" gallery presentation allows the textured edge of the 1756 laid paper to stand out, effortlessly bridging the gap between classical antiquity and clean, modern minimalism. ________________________________________ Legal Disclosure & Seller Protection Important Purchase Notice & Grading Disclosure: This item is a verified, authentic 18th-century / historic work on paper, not a modern reproduction. Due to its age, natural physical variations such as uniform toning, paper maturation, edge wear, or spotting (foxing) are inherently present and serve as definitive indicators of its antique origin. All items are described, cataloged, and photographed as accurately as possible. However, condition assessments are inherently subjective. Buyers are encouraged to review all high-resolution images carefully prior to purchase. This item is sold on an "as-is, where-is" basis. By finalizing your purchase, you acknowledge and accept these natural, historic characteristics as part of the unique provenance of the piece.