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, by Giuseppe Vasi, ink, 1770
The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1770: An Roman Building for Commerce, by Giuseppe Vasi, ink, 1770

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.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giuseppe Vasi

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

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted 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 was painted by Giuseppe Vasi in 1770.

Where can I see 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 held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is 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 associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1770: An Roman Building for Commerce?

Museum-quality prints of The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1770: An Roman Building for Commerce are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.