View of the Villa d'Este, Tivoli, from Views of Rome

From the Art Institute of Chicago record

When Giovanni Battista Piranesi came to Rome in 1740, he was fascinated with the coexistence of antiquities and modern developments in the city. Especially fond of Rome’s architecture and ruins, the artist used his etchings to bring the city’s landmarks alive, romantically capturing Rome in its most idealized state. View of the Villa d’Este, Tivoli contrasts the ancient Roman statues on the grounds with the grandiose Mannerist-style villa. Piranesi’s precise detail transforms an already-majestic view into a utopian paradise. Traditionally sold as loose sheets, the Views of Rome series attracted collectors and tourists as a souvenir of their experiences in Rome.