Artwork

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1758: A "Deliziosa" with Hanging Gardens

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1758: A "Deliziosa" with Hanging Gardens is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Giuseppe Pozzi. It dates from 1758 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:Lettered LL: "Paolo Posi Architetto" Lettered LC: "Giuseppe Palazzi disegn." Lettered LR: "Giuseppe Pozzi incise" Lettered LC: "Prospetto della Prima Machina eretta per COmmando di Sue Eccellenza [...] 1758"

About this work

The whole scene looks like a mix of a palace and a garden, with flags and decorative details everywhere.

This image shows a grand, imaginary stage set with tall columns and statues. At the center is a tall column topped with a statue, flanked by two smaller statues on horses. Below it, a wide staircase leads up to a platform with more statues and framed pictures.

The whole scene looks like a mix of a palace and a garden, with flags and decorative details everywhere.

The tiny figures at the bottom suggest this was meant for a performance or ceremony. The text at the bottom hints it was built for a special event in 1758.

Check out the technique: etching to see how artists like Pozzi created these detailed prints.

Overview

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1758: A 'Deliziosa' with Hanging Gardens is an etching by Giuseppe Pozzi, created in 1758. It depicts a fantastical architectural scene with ornate details and figures.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows an elaborate, imaginary setting with a central column, statues, and a staircase leading to a decorated platform. The presence of tiny figures and the overall design suggest it was intended for a ceremonial or performance context.

Technique & Style

The work is an etching, a technique that allowed Pozzi to achieve a high level of detail in the print. The level of intricacy in the architectural and decorative elements is notable.

History & Provenance

The print was created for a special event in 1758, as indicated by the text at the bottom of the image. It is associated with the Chinea, a significant occasion that year.