Giovanni Battista Piranesi was an Italian artist and engraver who is famous for creating a series of views of Rome, and was one of the most influential artists in the development of the neoclassical style of the late 18th century. Following Piranesi’s death in 1778, his heirs continued to publish his works, first from Rome and then from Paris, reissuing his etchings until 1839. This magnificent bird's-eye view of the Coliseum shows a large cross atop an architectural base in the center of the ruins with numerous visitors scattered throughout. Legends in bottom corners identify twelve significant architectural features. Piranesi's imprint is at bottom right. This is the fourth state.

References: Hind (Giovanni Battista Piranesi) #126-IV.

Condition: B+

On heavy, woven paper with large "P M" watermark. There are a few small stains in the image and a small abrasion and professionally repaired hole at left just inside neatline. There are additional professional repairs to small tears and holes in blank margins.