Loggias of Raphael in the Vatican Pl.04
1772-1777
This intricate print serves as a vibrant time capsule, preserving the famous frescoes of Raphael’s Loggias in the Vatican as they looked in the late 18th century. The top arch depicts the biblical story of Abraham greeting three visitors, framed by a chaotic and delightful mix of sphinxes, sea monsters, and floral motifs—a style called 'grotesque' that Raphael discovered in ancient Roman ruins. Below, a serene blue archway features hanging garlands of fruit and doves, showcasing the delicate balance of nature and architecture. Giovanni Ottaviani created this engraving to share these masterpieces with the world, acting like an 18th-century art historian with a very steady hand.
- Technique
- Hand-colored engraving
- Material
- Paper
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