The Temple of Antoninus and Faustina
1784
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1784
chalk
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This sketch shows a grand, ancient-looking temple with tall columns and a broken roof. The walls are covered in carvings and statues, and the steps lead up to a doorway. The drawing is mostly in black, with some faint lines and shading to give it depth. The artist added a few small figures near the base of the temple, almost like they’re lost in its size. The paper looks worn, as if the drawing has been handled a lot over time. Check out Piranesi, Francesco to see more of his dramatic architectural sketches.
