Imaginary Prisons, Plate 1

Artist: Giovanni Battista Piranesi
Artwork:Imaginary Prisons, Plate 1
Description: This is a preparatory drawing for the first of Piranesi’s series of etchings, the Imaginary Prisons. The series was published in Rome between 1745 and 1761 and consists of 16 plates. The etchings depict imaginary prisons, which are characterized by their complex and often bizarre architecture. The prisons are filled with people who are being tortured or punished in various ways. The series has been interpreted in many ways, but it is generally thought to be a commentary on the oppressive nature of society.
Url: https://anartworkaday.zhouqingen.com/reference/master/Museum/National Gallery of Art Sketch/R200912290067.avif