The Prima Macchina for the Chinea of 1771: The Temple of Asclepius
1771
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1771
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This print shows a grand, fake temple built for a big event. The structure has tall columns, statues on top, and a dome with a cross. People in old-fashioned clothes stand around a draped table in front of it, while others watch from the sides. The scene looks like a mix of a stage set and a real building, with detailed carvings and flags hanging around. The temple is called the Temple of Asclepius, and it was made for a special ceremony in 1771. The artist used a technique that lets them create fine lines and shading, making the print look almost like a drawing. If you like this, check out the technique: etching.
