Interior of St. Peter’s, with the Illumination of the Cross of St. Peter
1787
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1787
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This black-and-white print shows the inside of a grand, domed church. The space is packed with tall columns, arches, and intricate carvings. A crowd gathers below, looking up at a brightly lit cross hanging from the ceiling. The artist used shading to make the space feel deep and dramatic. The light focuses on the cross, drawing your eyes upward. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Piranesi created such detailed prints.
