The artwork entitled “The Roman antiquities, t. 1, Plate XXIV. Nero’s aqueduct” by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, created in 1756 in Italy, is an etching that exemplifies the Neoclassicism art movement. The artwork falls within the cityscape genre and is part of a series known as “Le antichità Romane”.
The artwork portrays the grand remnants of Nero’s aqueduct, set amidst a serene landscape. The etching method vividly captures the intricate details of the arches and the surrounding foliage, highlighting the monumental structure’s elegance and the passage of time as it stands in ruins. The meticulous line work and shading bring depth to the scene, emphasizing the architectural marvel and its historical significance. The overall composition evokes a sense of timeless beauty and reverence for the ancient Roman engineering prowess.