Italy - Lazio, Rome; Giacomo Lauro - Naumachia Domitiani monumentis graphica deformatio - 1621-1650

Rare and fascinating copperplate engraving depicting a sculptural, monumental prospect of the Naumachia of Domitian (Naumachia Domitiani), the grand aquatic amphitheater erected in Rome by Emperor Domitian for the simulation of historic naval battles. The composition is rich in architectural and dynamic details: at the center of the flooded basin, numerous galleys and Roman warships face off, finely described. The arena is enclosed by a majestic triple-arched amphitheater structure, enriched with triumphal entrances and monumental loggias. On the right stands the elegant cartouche with the main title: "NAUMACHIA DOMITIANI monumentis graphica deformatio...", topped by the inscription "Idest Navalis pugna ex vetusteis lapidum et nummorum...". In the lower left part is a dense explanatory text in Latin that delves into the history, origin, and functioning of the Roman hydraulic structure ("Naumachia dicta a praelio nauali ad exercenda enim iuvenute Romana..."). The work is numbered "86" at the top right inside the plate and features a contemporaneous ink numbering on the outer margin ("86").

Conditions: Intact sheet with margins. Excellent inking, sharp and well contrasted. Slight and natural yellowing of the paper with very mild marginal spotting that do not diminish the beauty of the image. No invasive restoration. General condition very good for a print four centuries old."