Italy - Lazio / Tivoli; George Ledwell Taylor (1788–1873) & Edward Cresy (1792–1858) - Tempio di Vesta a Tivoli - 1821-1850

The plate illustrates with absolute geometric precision and chiaroscuro the details of the famous Tiburtine Corinthian order of the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, one of the most celebrated and original variations of Roman architecture:
• The Capital: It stands out for its exceptional plasticity. It presents the classic double row of acanthus leaves, rigid and deeply carved, surmounted by vigorous angular volutes. The element of absolute peculiarity is the large central rosette on the abacus, which reproduces a stylized hibiscus (or lotus) flower, with stamens that unfold into an elegant protruding geometric spiral.
• The Entablature: In the upper section is depicted the continuous frieze decorated with bucrania (bull skulls) alternated with garlands of leaves, fruits, and rosettes. Beneath it, the architrave shows fragments of the original inscription in Roman capital letters ("L. GELLIUS. L. F."), commemorating the magistrate Lucius Gellius.

The work appears in overall very good / excellent condition for a print of more than two centuries of age:
• Surface and Ink: The inking is fresh, sharp, and well contrasted; the blacks are deep and preserve the extraordinary three-dimensional effect of the original chiaroscuro.