The Seconda Macchina for the Chinea of 1752: The Banquet of the Gods in Villa Carl'Amalia in Caserta
1752
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1752
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Seconda Macchina for the Chinea of 1752: The Banquet of the Gods in Villa Carl'Amalia in Caserta is a 1752 ink by Giuseppe Vasi, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This print shows a towering, ornate stage set built for a royal celebration. Columns, statues, and draped fabrics create a grand, temporary palace. Figures in the background move around it like guests at a party, while the centerpiece is a huge, decorated platform with steps and a statue on top. The tiny text at the bottom names it *The Banquet of the Gods*—a fake ancient feast for a king’s visit. The whole thing looks like a mix of classical ruins and a theatrical backdrop. Next, check out how this was made using etching.
