The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1751: Triumphal Arch for Roger I of Sicily
1751
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1751
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This etching shows a grand, imaginary triumphal arch with tall columns and statues on top. Below the arch, a crowd gathers around a horse-drawn chariot, while soldiers and workers build scaffolding around it. The scene looks like a busy construction site mixed with a parade, all drawn in sharp black lines. The arch is decorated with a crown and winged figures, suggesting it’s meant for a king or a victory. The text at the bottom names it for Roger I of Sicily, but the whole thing is fake—just a design for a temporary celebration. Next, look up etching to see how artists like this made detailed prints.
