The artwork titled “Capitals and special arc (Villa Borghese, the Arch of Septimius Severus, etc.)” is created by the artist Giovanni Battista Piranesi and belongs to the Neoclassicism art movement. Classified under the genre of design, this piece meticulously illustrates various architectural elements, specifically focusing on capitals and decorative arc components from historical structures such as the Villa Borghese and the Arch of Septimius Severus.
In the artwork, Piranesi presents a detailed study of architectural details, featuring intricately engraved depictions of capitals adorned with acanthus leaves, scrollwork, and other classical motifs. The engravings are displayed in a precise, technical manner, with measurements and annotations suggesting the artist’s intent to both document and instruct. The composition is organized methodically, with elements from different architectural settings juxtaposed to highlight their design and craftsmanship. Piranesi employs a technique that showcases his mastery over line and shading, giving depth and dimensionality to the structural forms, thus reflecting his profound reverence for classical architecture.