Artwork
The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1770: An Roman Building for Commerce

The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1770: An Roman Building for Commerce is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Giuseppe Vasi. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:Lettered LL: "Cavaliere Paolo Posi Architetto", LC: "Giuseppe Palazzi delin.", and LR: "Cavaliere Giuseppe Vasi incise" Lettered LC, below image: "Disegno della prima Mchina incendiata per comando di Sua Eccellenza [...] l'Anno MDCCLXX"
About this work
Overview
The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1770: An Roman Building for Commerce is a 1770 etching by Giuseppe Vasi, depicting a grand structure.
Subject & Meaning
The print shows a symmetrical building with three large doors and two towers, surrounded by people in period clothing, some carrying banners. A hot-air balloon floats above, suggesting a special event, likely related to the trade fair in Rome for which it was created.
Technique & Style
Vasi used etching techniques, employing lines and shading to convey depth and solidity, creating a detailed representation of the building and its surroundings.
Context
The print was created for a trade fair in Rome, indicating its purpose was tied to a specific event or celebration.
















