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Artwork

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum

Giuseppe Vasi , 1755

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum, by Giuseppe Vasi, ink, 1755
The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum, by Giuseppe Vasi, ink, 1755

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Giuseppe Vasi. It dates from 1755 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:Lettered LL: "Paolo Posi Archit. 1755" Lettered LR: "Giuseppe Vasi incise" Lettered LC: "Nel corso delle Glorie della MAESTA' SUA IL RE [...] l'Anno 1755"

About this work

Overview

This 1755 etching by Giuseppe Vasi depicts a fantastical architectural structure. Titled The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum, it showcases Vasi's skill in printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The print features a grandiose, arched bridge teeming with ancient statues and columns, blending real and imagined elements from Rome and Herculaneum. It commemorates the Chinea festival, where Naples showcased its cultural riches.

Technique & Style

Vasi's etching is characterized by intricate detail and a sense of grandeur. The tiny figures populating the scene emphasize the monumental scale of the depicted antiquities.

Context

Vasi created this work for a clientele of wealthy Italians with a passion for classical art and antiquity. The Chinea festival, which the print celebrates, was an occasion for Naples to display its cultural treasures.

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum
The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum, Giuseppe Vasi

Artist & collection

Artist

Giuseppe Vasi

Giuseppe Vasi (1710–1782) was an Italian artist, born in Corleone.

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum?

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum was painted by Giuseppe Vasi in 1755.

Where can I see The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum?

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum?

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum?

Museum-quality prints of The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1755: A Triumphal Bridge with Antiquities from Herculaneum are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.