Pictura vetus Architectum exhibens

This extremely rare engraving by Giovanni Giuseppe Orazi, from 1728, shows an architect with various measuring instruments. The work, titled "Pictura vetus Architectum exhibens" depicts an architect holding a compass and a wax tablet. At his sides are a set square and a plumb line. The text below describes the discovery of an ancient mural painting in November 1726. The painting was found in a burial chamber on the Appian Way, near the Arch of Drusus and today's Porta Capena. Marquis Alessandro Gregorio Capponi had the painting removed from the wall to keep it in his home.

Etching and engraving, 1728, signed lower left.

A good work, printed on contemporary laid paper, trimmed inside the plate, in good condition.