The artwork, “The Roman antiquities, t. 2, Plate LII. Registration of `Soldiers Praetorian guards,” is an etching created by Giovanni Battista Piranesi, a prominent artist associated with the Neoclassicism art movement. This piece falls under the design genre and is part of the artwork series titled “Le antichità Romane.”
The artwork depicts a detailed etching of ancient Roman inscriptions, specifically those related to Praetorian guards. The inscriptions are meticulously rendered, showcasing Piranesi’s skill in capturing the essence of Roman antiquities. The three central slabs of inscriptions are presented with a depth of shadowing that gives a sense of dimension and solidity to the stone engravings. The inscriptions themselves denote various individuals and their military titles, highlighting the importance and reverence given to these Roman soldiers. The composition and precision of the etching exemplify the Neoclassicist emphasis on classical antiquity and detailed artistry.
